All he needed was a bride…
Who said anything about falling in love? Orphaned at birth and a loner all his life, the last thing Sergeant Klayne Campbell needs is for feisty Delaney Danvers to entangle his thoughts. Bravely volunteering for a top-secret mission almost certain to get him killed, Klayne can’t bear the thought of dying utterly alone. All he wants is to face death knowing his life meant something to at least one person. Offering Delaney a marriage of convenience, he plans to leave behind a war bride as his beneficiary. After just one night as her husband, Klayne realizes he’ll do anything to survive and return to her. The moment she met handsome Sergeant Campbell at a holiday party, Delaney’s whole world shifted off kilter. Full of fun with an unquenchable zest for life, she isn’t afraid to go after what she wants. And what she wants is Klayne. When he prepares to join a hazardous mission, she seizes the opportunity to give him a reason to fight his way back home — to her heart. A tender, sweet romance rich with history and enduring love, Home of Her Heart captures the era and emotions prevalent during America’s entry into World War II.
USA Today Bestselling Author Shanna Hatfield writes character-driven romances with relatable heroes and heroines. Her historical westerns have been described as “reminiscent of the era captured by Bonanza and The Virginian” while her contemporary works have been called “laugh-out-loud funny, and a little heart-pumping sexy without being explicit in any way.”
Convinced everyone deserves a happy ending, this hopeless romantic is out to make it happen one story at a time. When she isn’t writing or indulging in chocolate (dark and decadent, please), Shanna hangs out with her husband, lovingly known as Captain Cavedweller. Shanna is a member of Western Writers of America, Women Writing the West, Romance Writers of America, Sweet Romance Reads, Cowboy Kisses, and Pioneer Hearts.
Author Links:
Website: http://shannahatfield.com Newsletter: http://tinyurl.com/shannasnewsletter Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorShannaHatfield Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/shannahatfield/boards/ Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4981400.Shanna_Hatfield You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/user/ShannaHatfield?feature=watch Twitter: https://twitter.com/ShannaHatfield Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shannahatfield/ Amazon: http://amzn.to/2cYfAcI
“What kind of man spies on a woman from behind a Christmas tree?” she asked, stopping in front of him and crossing her arms in front of her chest. Her face held a look of suspicious scrutiny.
Dumbfounded and caught in the act, Klayne lost the ability to speak. The scornful look she’d given him melted into a warm smile. She laughed and placed a hand on his arm. “I’m teasing you, soldier. What’s your name?” He stared at her another moment before he looked down to his arm where her hand rested. Her palm threatened to sear through the fabric of his shirt and brand his skin. Although he expected her to have soft hands with manicured nails, her hands were work-roughened, chapped, and with nails broken down to the quick. A scab covered the backs of two knuckles and a cut stretched along the length of her index finger. “You’re a quiet one, aren’t you?” she asked, continuing to look at him as she dropped her hand. “Most of the time, ma’am,” he said, silently urging his tongue to regain function. “My name is Klayne. Sergeant Klayne Campbell.” “It’s nice to meet you, Sergeant.” She gave him a beaming smile and held out a hand to him. “I’m Delaney Danvers, but most of my friends just call me Dee.” “Miss Danvers, it’s a pleasure to meet you.” Klayne took her much smaller hand in his, astonished by the calluses on her palm and the strength in her grip. Whoever this girl was, she wasn’t afraid of hard work. “Did you happen to provide a trick riding performance at the rodeo a few months ago?” She shrugged, as though it was nothing. “I did. My dad and his friends talked me into doing it.” Delaney leaned closer to him, as though she might confide a secret. “Did I look like an idiot? That costume gave me ten different kinds of fits.” Klayne swallowed down a laugh and shook his head, recalling the leather-fringed outfit she’d worn. “No, ma’am. You looked…” Before he voiced his thoughts, he snapped his mouth shut. He couldn’t very well tell her she looked magnificent and dazzling, and had him on the edge of his seat the whole time she performed. The way she’d ridden her horse was poetic in its raw, wild beauty. The outfit in question made him wonder if she was a descendant of Annie Oakley or a heroine from the Old West. Each movement of the horse she rode caused the fringe to dance around her, leaving him spellbound. His gaze roved over her face again and he saw a glimmer in her eyes, as though she dared him to bombard her with idle flattery. ma’am.”
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I can't begin to tell you what a blessing it's been to work with the wonderful authors involved in the Fall Into Romance collection. I'm going to be chatting with one of these amazing people each week leading up to the release of Fall Into Romance. I hope you enjoy these interviews as much as I have! Chatting with J.J. DiBenedetto Author of Finding Dori Me: Romance, Oregon is a beautiful place with a small-town atmosphere and big personalities. If you could visit Romance yourself, what one shop or person would you want to make sure was on your itinerary? J.J. - I think I’d have to go to the roller rink (which appears in “Finding Forever in Romance” and also “Lost in Romance”), if only because I haven’t been to one since high school and (unlike most of my high school years) I have fond memories of that. And of course I’d want to stay at the Interlude Inn. Me: Animals are a big part of the stories that make up our Fall Into Romance compilation. Tell us a little about the critter(s) in your novella. J.J. - My animal is Little Tee, who’s mostly a Standard Poodle (with something else mixed in, because she’s not quite as big as a purebred Poodle). My heroine describes her as “cute and charming, but absent the day that God handed out good sense.” Me: Which of the characters in your story do you relate to the most? Why is that? J.J. - Probably Lucas, the hero, because when it comes to relationships, he’s his own worst enemy, and that’s how it always felt to me before I finally met my wife. Me: How many pets do you have? Tell us a little about them. J.J. - Right now, I have one pet (it often feels as though he has me, though!). He’s Danny, a white cat (Domestic medium hair, we think). He’s full of energy and mischief, but he’s also very sweet and unlike our first cat, he loves strangers and will go right up to them. Me: If you haven’t been to Oregon, where would you visit if you could make a trip there? J.J. - Probably my first pick would be Crater Lake National Park. It looks amazing, and it seems like it would be a great experience. Me: What was your favorite part about writing your novella? J.J. - I enjoyed the whole process. It all came pretty easily. As soon as I figured out who my heroine was, her story basically wrote itself. I especially liked working in characters and locations from the other novellas in the set. Me: What state do you live in? What’s the weather like there in the fall? J.J. - Virginia (specifically northern Virginia, right outside Washington, DC). Fall varies wildly here. Sometimes we don’t really have one – we get summer heat through to mid-October and then straight to winter-like conditions. And sometimes we get fall-like weather from late September right through until Christmas. Me: When you go to a festival or fair, is there a particular type of food you look forward to getting that you don’t usually buy at any other time? J.J. - Funnel cakes! Especially with plenty of sugar and maybe even chocolate drizzled on top. J.J. DiBenedetto is author of the Dream Series and the Jane Barnaby Adventures and lives in Arlington, Virginia with the love of his life and a white cat who rules the roost. His passions are photography, travel, the opera, the New York Giants, and of course writing. Mr. DiBenedetto is devoted to writing books with a sense of mysticism to entertain and perhaps invite his readers to suspend belief in a way they might never have. Since he was very young , he has always been intrigued with the supernatural and things that can't be explained rationally. By always asking way too many questions, it piqued his interest to the point of setting his writing off and running when he grew up! All the curiosity building up all those years were finally getting put into words to captivate readers. And it hasn't ended. His main goal is to share all the stories he has inside, putting pen to paper. And that's how the Dream Series was born. Finding Dori Dori came to the town of Romance to help a friend. She wasn’t looking for a romance of her own. But when she broke her leg and found herself stuck in Romance for two weeks, romance found her – with the very man who caused her accident. Lucas wasn’t looking for romance, either. But when the woman who almost killed herself by running in front of his truck turned out to be his next client, romance found him, too. Dori has two weeks until her leg is healed and she can travel back home to New York. Lucas has two weeks until his job is finished and he won’t have see Dori again. Can the two of them stop sabotaging themselves long enough for Romance to work its magic on them? Fall Into Romance - Pre-Order for Only $0.99! Finding Dori by J.J. DiBenedetto is one of ten sweet novellas in the Fall Into Romance collection. Surround yourself in the romance of the autumn season with 10 heartwarming, sweet novellas from the USA Today, national bestselling, and award-winning authors. Each story takes you inside the heart of a small town-its people-and features adorable animal friends in need of a forever home. Take a trip to Romance, Oregon, where falling in love has never been easier and happily-ever-after is guaranteed! It's Party Time! Join me on Thursday, August 10th, for author Shanna Hatfield's Release Party! Not only are we celebrating the release of her latest book, Home of Her Heart, but this is also Shanna's 50th title. Both are big reasons to throw a party! There'll be prizes, guest authors, games, and much more. You won't want to miss it. Guest Author Schedule (All times are Pacific) 10:00 a.m. - Melanie D. Snitker 10:20 a.m. - Julie Lence 10:40 a.m. - Magdalena Scott 11:00 a.m. - Johnnie Alexander 11:20 a.m. - Cassie Hayes 11:40 a.m. - Ciara Knight Noon - Kristin Holt 12:20 p.m. - Melinda Curtis 12:40 p.m. - Amelia C. Adams Invite Your Friends! Invite your friends and then comment on this post to be entered for a chance to win a $25.00 Amazon gift card! Home of Her Heart by Shanna Hatfield All he needed was a bride. . . Who said anything about falling in love? Orphaned at birth and a loner all his life, the last thing Sergeant Klayne Campbell needs is for feisty Delaney Danvers to entangle his thoughts. Bravely volunteering for a top-secret mission almost certain to get him killed, Klayne can’t bear the thought of dying utterly alone. All he wants is to face death knowing his life meant something to at least one person. Offering Delaney a marriage of convenience, he plans to leave behind a war bride as his beneficiary. After just one night as her husband, Klayne realizes he’ll do anything to survive and return to her. The moment she met handsome Sergeant Campbell at a holiday party, Delaney’s whole world shifted off kilter. Full of fun with an unquenchable zest for life, she isn’t afraid to go after what she wants. And what she wants is Klayne. When he prepares to join a hazardous mission, she seizes the opportunity to give him a reason to fight his way back home - to her heart. A tender, sweet romance rich with history and enduring love, Home of Her Heart captures the era and emotions prevalent during America’s entry into World War II. Author Theresa Lynn Hall's newest title, Ransom in Rio, came out in June. She's here to tell us a little more about herself and her book. As a native Texan, Theresa loves to write suspenseful stories that happen in small Texas towns with old fashioned Southern values. She’s an elementary teacher and mom to two boys—the oldest being in law enforcement, which comes in handy when she’s researching. When she’s not teaching kids or writing, she loves to cook, read a good suspense, and binge-watch episodes of Dateline. She is a member of RWA (Romance Writers of America) and ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers). She actively promotes fellow Christian Fiction authors on her blog. She also loves to hear from readers who enjoy Christian Fiction Private Investigator, Braden McCoy wants nothing more than to finish out the week doing a little fishing from his boat. The ex-special ops vet enjoys his peaceful life and loves his new career. He’s learned to put his past behind him and enjoy his blessings. Until a mourning redhead walks into his office and changes his plans. Lexi Ramos always knew her family was dysfunctional. Until the sudden death of her brother, she never knew exactly how much. Consumed with questions surrounding his accident, she seeks the help of a private investigator. What starts out as a murder investigation in Cozumel, quickly crosses borders and escalates into a race against time to save them both from Brazilian kidnappers, who somehow know more about her family secrets than she does. Lexi soon realizes that life comes with a price. Author Interview Me: Welcome, Theresa. Thanks so much for joining us today. What inspired you to write your newest release?
Theresa: My publisher, Pelican Book Group, began a series called Passport to Romance. They posted a list of international cities with a list of three things that had to be written into each book. My husband had recently traveled to Rio on a business trip and I knew that was the book I wanted to write. When you’re reading Ransom in Rio, be on the lookout for an emerald necklace, a formal event, and a family secret. It sounds intriguing! Me: If there’s one thing you hope readers come away with after reading your book, what would it be? Theresa: The one thing I want all readers to come away with is a sense of hope. One of my favorite verses that I live by is Philippians 4:13--I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Lexi’s life hasn’t been easy and it only gets harder. She has to learn that there is always hope and she has to find the strength to keep going. Me: Is there a special treat or drink that helps you during your writing process? Theresa: Oh, my goodness, yes! Coffee and chocolate!! Me: Are you an introvert or an extrovert? Theresa: I would have to say that I’m in introvert. Even though I’m a teacher, I don’t like to be the center of attention or be in a crowd of people. Unfortunately, I think that with being an introvert comes the self-esteem issues. As much as love to write, I always cringe when I know someone is reading my books. Crazy, I know!! I wish I could be more outgoing, but forcing it doesn’t help much. Once I get to know people, I’m more at ease, but it does take me a while. I completely understand what you mean! I'm also an introvert and struggle with putting myself out there and worrying about what other people think. Me: What project are you working on now? Theresa: I’m working on a suspense novella set in central Texas. It’s about a young woman who sees something she never should have seen and now is running for her life. The police officer trying to keep her safe is torn between running from his own past and helping her, which puts her in even more danger. I can’t give too much away, but hopefully it will be contracted soon! Me: What inspired the cover for your latest book? Theresa: I absolutely love the cover of Ransom in Rio. Nicola Martinez at Pelican Book Group produces the most amazing covers. I sent her a picture my husband took of the Christ the Redeemer statue when he was in Rio and they incorporated it into the cover. It turned out amazing! Me: Thanks again for joining us, Theresa. It’s been fun chatting with you! Theresa: Thank you so much for having me here today, Melanie. I enjoyed it!
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Finding Peace
My book, Finding Peace, is one of the titles you could win. Here's a little more about it:
Police Officer Tuck Chandler is good at his job. He’s also good at holding women at arm’s length. Jilted by his fiancée for his dedication to his job, he’s not about to open himself up to hurt like that again. Laurie Blake is a struggling photographer. After growing up in a wealthy family, she’s determined to make it on her own, even if it means doing it the hard way. When Tuck is assigned to a puzzling burglary involving Laurie’s fledgling photography business, he goes into it with his usual perseverance. He wants to help her – if she’ll let him. As the case unfolds and the mystery deepens, another question arises. Will the past get in the way of their future?
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Hi Everyone! I could use your help. I've submitted Finding Peace for Christian Women Reader's Club's Literary Lighthouse Award. All submissions are open for voting through August.
You don't have to sign up for anything to enter. But if you'd like to register for CWRC's newsletter, you'll be entered for a chance to win a Kindle Fire. If you've read Finding Peace and enjoyed it, I'd really appreciate your vote. Thank you so much! I can't begin to tell you what a blessing it's been to work with the wonderful authors involved in the Fall Into Romance collection. I'm going to be chatting with one of these amazing people each week leading up to the release of Fall Into Romance. I hope you enjoy these interviews as much as I have! Chatting with Liwen Y. Ho Author of Chasing Romance Hi, Liwen! Your novella, Chasing Romance, is such a fun story. I can't wait for everyone to meet Izzy and Chase! Me: Romance, Oregon is a beautiful place with a small-town atmosphere and big personalities. If you could visit Romance yourself, what one shop or person would you want to make sure was on your itinerary? Liwen: Great question! After researching Oregon for my story and also reading some of the other stories in the set, I almost feel like Romance is a real place. J If I could visit this small town, I’d definitely want to meet Mrs. Cooper, the all-too-helpful and curious neighbor from my book. She was such a fun character to write. She also wins the pumpkin pie contest every year at the Fall Festival, so I’d have to try a slice of her pie. Me: Animals are a big part of the stories that make up our Fall Into Romance compilation. Tell us a little about the critter in your novella. Liwen: The animal friend in my story is a black lab/pit bull mix named Thor. He’s actually based off the dog my sister and brother-in-law adopted two years ago whom I lovingly refer to as my fur-nephew. He’s a sweet dog with the softest, velvety ears. Me: Which of the characters in your story do you relate to the most? Why is that? Liwen: This is a hard one. I think I’d have to say the female main character, Izzy, only because she’s a songwriter and I used to write song lyrics back in the day. A couple of college friends and I wrote a song together that became the official song for our church’s college group. I heard they were still singing the song years after we graduated! Bonus fact: I let my inner songwriter loose again when I wrote this story and included some song lyrics. Unfortunately, I don’t write music, but if there’s someone who wants to put the words to a melody, I’d be thrilled! Me: What’s your favorite snack food or drink to have on hand when you’re writing? Liwen: I always drink tea when I write. During the colder months, I drink chai or peppermint tea; during the warmer months, I like something more fruity and sweet. When I splurge on tea, it’s usually from a local boba place that sells tea with toppings (my favorite is crystal boba, which is also known as white boba). Me: What was your favorite part about writing your novella? Liwen: My favorite part about writing this story was getting inspiration from music. I based the male main character off a real artist, Shawn Mendes, who’s a bit younger than Chase, but is just as passionate and charming. I listened to his songs non-stop and even watched interviews of him online so I could get a good sense of who he is. If you haven’t heard of him or his songs, you need to check him out! Me: What about writing your novella was the most challenging? Liwen: The most challenging part was writing about a relationship between a younger man and an older woman. I have no experience in this area, but I did ask my hubby for a male perspective and also researched some celebrity couples who are in similar relationships. (Hugh Jackman and Deborra-Lee Furness are a great example of one). Me: If you had to describe the town of Romance with one word, what would it be? Liwen: Familiar. Familiar because it’s a small town and everyone knows everyone else, but also because the people who live there are like the people you’d meet in your town/city. Liwen Y. Ho works as a chauffeur and referee by day (AKA being a stay at home mom) and a romance writer by night. In her pre-author life, she received a Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Western Seminary, and she loves makeovers of all kinds, especially those of the heart and mind. She lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her techie husband and their two children, and blogs about her adventures as a recovering perfectionist atwww.2square2behip.com. Chasing Romance Izzy Sutton shelved away her own needs when her ex-boyfriend left town eighteen years ago, leaving her to raise their daughter alone. With Gracie away at college now, she has time to invest in her Bed and Breakfast, as well as her secret job as a songwriter. Trouble starts though when a handsome singer comes looking for a room, forcing Izzy to decide if it’s worth opening up her heart again, especially to a much younger man. Pop sensation Chase Lockhart owes his overnight fame to one song penned by an anonymous writer. Desperate for more chart-toppers, he travels to Oregon to collect the other songs she owes him. Finding her is the least of his troubles; getting past her defenses, including her dog who hates him, proves to be the real challenge. Can a shared love of music lead a young singer and a single mom to fall in love? Anything’s possible in the small town of Romance. Fall Into Romance - Pre-Order for Only $0.99! Chasing Romance by Liwen Y. Ho is one of ten sweet novellas in the Fall Into Romance collection. Surround yourself in the romance of the autumn season with 10 heartwarming, sweet novellas from the USA Today, national bestselling, and award-winning authors. Each story takes you inside the heart of a small town-its people-and features adorable animal friends in need of a forever home. Take a trip to Romance, Oregon, where falling in love has never been easier and happily-ever-after is guaranteed! Like our Facebook page
and stay up-to-date with news about Fall Into Romance What happens when you mix together a group of authors, add laughter, lovable pets, and a dash of pumpkin spice? The perfect combination resulting in ten sweet novellas that'll have you falling in love all over again! Surround yourself in the romance of the autumn season with 10 heartwarming, sweet novellas from the USA Today, national bestselling, and award-winning authors. Each story takes you inside the heart of a small town-its people-and features adorable animal friends in need of a forever home. Take a trip to Romance, Oregon, where falling in love has never been easier and happily-ever-after is guaranteed! Stories and Authors We can't begin to tell you how much fun we've had working together on this project. It's our hope that you'll fall in love with Romance, Oregon and the people who live there just like we did! Lost in Romance by Stacy Claflin At Second Glance by Raine English Blown Into Romance by Shanna Hatfield Wired for Romance by Franky A. Brown Restoring Romance by Tamie Dearen Finding Dori by J.J. DeBenedetto Katie’s Chance for Romance by Jessica L. Elliott Chasing Romance by Liwen Y. Ho Lessons in Romance by Kit Morgan Finding Forever in Romance by Melanie D. Snitker Welcome to Romance Facebook Page Like and follow us on Facebook! You'll stay up-to-date on release news, author interviews, future projects, and more! Finding Forever in Romance by Melanie D. Snitker Being a part of this boxed set has been an amazing experience and a blessing. My novella, Finding Forever in Romance, was so much fun to write and I can’t wait for you all to read it! From the time he was a child, Brent Todd has helped lost pets find healing and homes. Now, he runs Romance's Finding Forever Animal Rescue. Amid the dogs, cats, donkeys, goats, and exotic animals in his care, he convinces himself he has everything he needs. Then a beautiful woman and her son volunteer to help at the shelter. Brent soon realizes he needs more than the rescue animals to fill the empty spaces in his heart and home. Dedicated to raising her son, Nicole Crawford views romance as a lovely idea. But between being a single mom and the pain of her past, she refuses to dwell on something so out of reach. To teach her son about helping others, they volunteer at Finding Forever on a temporary basis. But the more time she spends with Brent, the more she realizes it'll be impossible to walk away from him and the shelter with her heart intact. Together, maybe Brent and Nicole will discover a forever family of their own. Don't forget to pre-order your copy of Fall Into Romance!
Here's a nice selection of new releases from my fellow authors. I hope you'll load up your Kindle with some of these great titles! July 29th Her Blue-Eyed Lieutenant by Linda Ellen August 1st The Soldier's Secret Child by Lee Tobin McClain Texas Daddy: A Single Dad Romance by Jolene Navarro The Alora Chronicles: The Complete Series by Lara Ann Pacific Coast Wedding by Laura L. Walker Return to Heartland by Jacquie Gee August 3rd Out of My League by Jennifer McCoy Blaske August 8th Flight 359 by Staci Stallings Isabella and the Slipper by Victorine E. Lieske August 11th One Night of Moonlight by C.S. Johnson August 14th Beauty's Gift by C. S. Johnson August 15th A Mother for Leah by Rachel L. Miller Check out these new releases from authors involved with American Christian Fiction Writers. You're sure to find a new favorite! Action/Adventure:
Imperfect Lies by Elizabeth Noyes — When another woman emerges from the past to claim Mallory Cameron’s happily ever after, she cuts her losses and sets out to find a headline-worthy story to launch her journalism career. She embarks on a whirlwind journey that takes her across the United States, to the blue-green waters of the Caribbean, on to sunny Mexico, and deep into the dangerous parts of Africa where terror reigns. James Evers turned his back on a life of power and privilege to carve a place in the world for himself. Now that he’s finally discovered his niche as a small-town sheriff and found the woman he wants in his future, a past indiscretion struts in on high heels and sends his newfound love fleeing headlong into peril. His mission: neutralize old enemies, defuse new threats, resolve past mistakes, settle family disputes, and—most importantly—find and rescue his woman from terrorists before the unthinkable happens. (Action/Adventure from Write Integrity Press) Contemporary Romance: The Bachelor’s Unexpected Family by Lisa Carter — Young widow Kristina Montgomery moves to Kiptohanock, Virginia, hoping it will give her and her teenage son, Gray, a fresh start. She longs for the peace and quiet only a small town can provide. But her plans are thwarted by her new neighbor, Canyon Collier, a former Coast Guard pilot and a crop duster. Gray is instantly drawn to the pilot and his teenage niece, Jade—and Kristina’s not far behind. She and Canyon are soon bonding over parenting their charges and their spark becomes undeniable. Could it be that the spirited pilot is just what Kristina needs to teach her heart to soar again? (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin]) Gift of the Magpie by Zoe M. McCarthy — Amanda Larrowe’s lack of trust sabotages her relationships. The English teacher and award-winning author of middle-grade adventure books for boys has shut off communication with friends and family to meet her January 2 book deadline. Now, in the deepest snow accumulation Richmond, Virginia, has experienced in years, Camden Lancaster moves in across the street. After ten years, Amanda’s heart still smarts from the humiliating aftermath of their perfect high-school Valentine’s Day date. Camden may have transformed into a handsome, amiable man, but his likeability doesn’t instill trust in Amanda’s heart. When Cam doesn’t recognize her on their first two encounters, she thinks it’s safe to be his fair-weather neighbor. Boy is she wrong. (Contemporary Romance from Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas) A Mother for Leah by Rachel L. Miller –It’s been ten years since Leah Fisher’s mother died in a buggy accident. But when Leah’s father shows interest in Naomi Yoder, Leah isn’t ready for a new mother. Will Leah be able to let go of her own ideas and realize that God truly does know best for her or will she allow love to slip through her fingers, destroying Samuel Fisher and Naomi Yoder’s happiness at the same time? (Contemporary from S & G Publishing) General Contemporary: Freedom’s Ring by Heidi Chiavaroli — An antique ring reunites a Boston Marathon bombing survivor with the man who saved her. Together they unearth the two-hundred-year- old history of a woman who suffered tremendous loss in the Boston Massacre, a woman torn between the love of two men – one a patriot, one a Redcoat. (General Contemporary from Tyndale House) Fresh Faith by Elise Phillips — Joy Abbott had been trying to start her life over for years — and failing. Then a letter summoned her to Texas and everything changed. (General Contemporary from Desert Breeze Publishing) Historical: Enchanted Isle by Melanie Dobson — In the spring of 1958, Jenny Winter embarks on a two-month adventure to a quaint village in England’s magical Lake District. With a new camera and an eye for capturing the beauty others miss, she can’t wait to explore the heathery fells and mystical waters. Adrian Kemp, a handsome and enigmatic local, makes the sightseeing even more beguiling. When Adrian shows Jenny his late father’s abandoned dream, a deserted island amusement park, she glimpses a kindred spirit in this reckless, haunted young man. Yet as she opens her heart to Adrian, the two stumble into a mystery leading back a generation to an unforgettable romance and an unsolved murder. As long-held secrets come to light, it’s left to Jenny and Adrian to put the past to rest and restore a lost dream. (Historical from Waterfall Press) Titus: The Aristocrat by Katheryn Maddox Haddad — Titus intends to become a famous lawyer in the Roman Empire. Instead, he is sent by Paul to arbitrate between arch enemies in wild Corinth, wilder Crete, and wildest Dalmatia. In each place he suffers. But, long before that, he suffers from guilt over the death of his mother when he was eleven years old. How does Titus survive it all? (Historical from Northern Lights Publishing House) Historical Romance: To Wager Her Heart by Tamera Alexander — With fates bound by a shared tragedy, a reformed gambler from the Colorado Territory and a Southern Belle bent on breaking free from society’s expectations must work together to achieve their dreams – provided the truth doesn’t tear them apart first. (Historical Romance from Zondervan) The Second Chance Brides Collection by Lauralee Bliss, Angela Breidenbach, Ramona K. Cecil, Pamela Griffin, Grace Hitchcock, Pam Hillman, Laura V. Hilton, Tiffany Amber Stockton, and Liz Tolsma — Meet nine women who each believe their chance for lifelong love has passed them by. From the girls who lost their beaus to war, to the wallflowers overshadowed by others, and the widows deeply hurt by their loss, the desire to love and be loved spans American history from 1777 to 1944. Experience the sweet pull of romance on each life and the blossom of faith that leads them to brighter futures. (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing) The Promise of Breeze Hill by Pam Hillman — Anxious for his brothers to join him on the rugged frontier along the Mississippi River, Connor O’Shea has no choice but to indenture himself as a carpenter in exchange for their passage from Ireland. But when he’s sold to Isabella Bartholomew of Breeze Hill Plantation, Connor fears he’ll repeat past mistakes and vows not to be tempted by the lovely lady. The responsibilities of running Breeze Hill have fallen on Isabella’s shoulders after her brother was found dead in the swamps along the Natchez Trace and a suspicious fire devastated their crops, almost destroyed their home, and left her father seriously injured. Even with Connor’s help, Isabella fears she’ll lose her family’s plantation. Despite her growing feelings for the handsome Irish carpenter, she seriously considers accepting her wealthy and influential neighbor’s proposal of marriage. Soon, though, Connor realizes someone is out to eliminate the Bartholomew family. Can he set aside his own feelings to keep Isabella safe? (Historical Romance from Tyndale House) Romantic Suspense: Chasing Secrets by Lynette Eason — When a photo leads investigators in West Ireland to open a twenty-five-year-old cold case, Elite Guardians bodyguard Haley Callaghan’s life is suddenly in danger. Haley knows how to take care of herself; after all, she’s made a career out of taking care of others. But after she has an uncomfortably close call, Detective Steven Rothwell takes it upon himself to stay with her–and the young client she has taken under her wing. A protector at heart, he’s not about to let Haley fight this battle alone. In a sweeping plot that takes them into long-buried memories–and the depths of the heart–Haley and Steven will have to solve the mystery of Haley’s past while dodging bullets, bombs, and bad guys who just won’t quit. (Romantic Suspense from Revell [Baker]) Plain Retribution by Dana R. Lynn — Ten years ago while on rumspringa, Rebecca Miller and her friends were kidnapped and held captive…and now, living in the English world, she’s nearly abducted again. One by one her friends who once helped send their abductor to jail are targeted, and she is next…unless police officer Miles Olsen can stop a killer. Deaf since birth, the only person on the force that Rebecca can communicate with is Miles, and he needs this case to redeem himself of past mistakes. When the relentless killer tracks them deep into the heart of Amish country, protecting Rebecca must be Miles’s sole focus. Because a mistake this time will cost something worth more to him than his job—the woman he’s falling for. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin]) Cold Blooded by Anne Patrick — Detective Gwen Jamison has the highest closure rate in her division, but a string of armed robberies is about to take over her life. Not only will her job be on the line, but the troubling case also wreaks havoc on her personal life. Lieutenant Ian McKean knew he would have his hands full when he took over leadership of the detectives unit. He wasn’t prepared for the headstrong Detective Jamison, though, who quickly becomes a thorn in his side. If they can stop butting heads long enough they might realize they are more alike than either imagined. (Romantic Suspense from Anne Patrick)
Shanna Hatfield's newest book, Home of Her Heart, is available for pre-order! I absolutely loved the first title in this series, and cannot wait to read this one. If you enjoy historical romance set in World War II, then you'll definitely want to give her Hearts of the War series a try!
All he needed was a bride…
Who said anything about falling in love?
Orphaned at birth and a loner all his life, the last thing Sergeant Klayne Campbell needs is for feisty Delaney Danvers to entangle his thoughts. Bravely volunteering for a top-secret mission almost certain to get him killed, Klayne can’t bear the thought of dying utterly alone. All he wants is to face death knowing his life meant something to at least one person. Offering Delaney a marriage of convenience, he plans to leave behind a war bride as his beneficiary. After just one night as her husband, Klayne realizes he’ll do anything to survive and return to her.
The moment she met handsome Sergeant Campbell at a holiday party, Delaney’s whole world shifted off kilter. Full of fun with an unquenchable zest for life, she isn’t afraid to go after what she wants. And what she wants is Klayne. When he prepares to join a hazardous mission, she seizes the opportunity to give him a reason to fight his way back home — to her heart. A tender, sweet romance rich with history and enduring love, Home of Her Heart captures the era and emotions prevalent during America’s entry into World War II.
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USA Today Bestselling Author Shanna Hatfield writes character-driven romances with relatable heroes and heroines. Her historical westerns have been described as “reminiscent of the era captured by Bonanza and The Virginian” while her contemporary works have been called “laugh-out-loud funny, and a little heart-pumping sexy without being explicit in any way.”
Convinced everyone deserves a happy ending, this hopeless romantic is out to make it happen one story at a time. When she isn’t writing or indulging in chocolate (dark and decadent, please), Shanna hangs out with her husband, lovingly known as Captain Cavedweller. Shanna is a member of Western Writers of America, Women Writing the West, Romance Writers of America, Sweet Romance Reads, Cowboy Kisses, and Pioneer Hearts.
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Delaney gazed at the ring, holding it up so it caught the afternoon sun streaming in the window behind her. A sunbeam refracted in the diamond, sending splinters of luminescent light dancing on the wall near the fireplace. She released a long breath then pinned Klayne with an angry glare.
“How could you? How could you buy the most perfect ring I’ve ever clapped my eyes on and ask to marry me with such a pathetic, stupid, horrid proposal. No, I won’t marry you just so you can go off and get yourself killed. Don’t be an idiot!” The length of several heartbeats passed as she glowered at him. His eager look of expectation wilted into one of wounded surprise. Finally, she leaned forward and kissed his cheek, softening her harsh tone. “If you can come up with a better, more compelling, convincing reason for me to marry you, I might change my answer.” Whether you ride the range or stalk the seas, we all have our little quirks. But there’s one really important thing I bet we all have in common: WE LOVE BOOKS! And you know what? Winning prizes rocks, too. Welcome to LitRing’s Pirates Vs. Cowboys Giveaway! We’ve assembled a team of 50 authors brave enough to take a stance on such a divisive issue: Pirates or Cowboys? What’s more, by picking sides and entering our giveaway, you could win prizes for yourself AND a pretty awesome promo pack for your favorite author too! What's Better Than a Sweet Texas Romance? When it comes to choosing between Pirates and Cowboys, it was no contest: Cowboys all the way! Of course, I may be a little biased. I live in the great state of Texas, and I'm married to my own handsome cowboy, so there was no way pirates were going to win here. lol
Do you enjoy reading heart-warming romance novels? How about one that takes place on a Longhorn ranch in Texas? Then Finding Joy might be the book for you! Sometimes, what looks like a dead end, is really a new beginning. A horrific accident changed everything for Parker Wilson. The beautiful new employee his mom hires is the last thing he needs and he'll do whatever it takes to make the girl quit and regain the peace and quiet he prefers. Nothing short of desperation would force Chelsea Blake to work on a local cattle ranch. She may not be cut out for ranch life, but her determination to succeed is stronger than her handsome employer’s efforts at forcing her to leave. Unprepared to discover all they have in common, if they set aside their initial dislike, they might find joy beyond measure. I had the opportunity to visit our local zoo a couple of times last week. During one trip, my daughter and I went with the purpose of taking photographs of the animals and their personalities. I got a lot of photos I really like, and thought I'd share a few of them with you. Thanks for looking! July 13th ~ 12 p.m. - 8 p.m. EDT Looking to add some new books to your summer reading list? Come and meet some awesome Christian indie authors and stock up your bookshelf. The party is on Facebook and you can attend in the comfort of your own home. We will have games, giveaways, and more! Here are your party hosts
(all times are EDT): 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. - Kandi Wyatt 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. - Kate Willis 2:00 - 3:00 p.m. - Sharon D. Tweet & Margaret Skea 3:00 - 4:00 p.m. - Faith Blum & Amanda Tero 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. - Audrey Rich & Kellyn Roth 5:00 - 6:00 p.m. - EJ McCay 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. - Melanie D. Snitker 7:00 - 8:00 p.m. - Julie Spencer & Liwen Ho Safe In His Arms, the first book in the Life Unexpected series, is FREE for the first time ever! If you enjoy clean romance with some suspenseful twists and turns, then this book is for you. Pick up your FREE copy now through July 14th. When a beautiful woman walks into his diner asking for a job, Joel Ash can't bring himself to say no. The more he gets to know Anna, the more he's convinced she's hiding something. Intrigued and drawn to protect her, he prays he can ensure her safety and guard her heart. Even if it means risking his own in the process. Anna Henderson is on the run. In a new town, she wants nothing more than to trust Joel and the family offering her a fresh beginning. She's secured vital evidence that could put her obsessive ex behind bars and out of her life. But without the ability to access it, she'll always be looking over her shoulder. Worried her past will catch up with her, can Anna ever feel safe in Joel's arms? The second book in the series, Someone to Trust, is also available. If you enjoy Joel and Anna's story, you won't want to miss Chase and Brooke's. Who doesn't love reading about best friends falling in love? Brooke Pierce thought she'd perfected the art of hiding her feelings from Chess, her best friend and surrogate brother. Then, in a moment of weakness, she reveals the truth. His immediate rejection shatters her heart. After years of waiting for something that clearly wasn’t meant to be, it’s time to break away. Knowing she needs to move on, she must rely on the faith that’s always sustained her. Chess Summers can’t be the person Brooke needs, even though his heart demands otherwise. Determined to protect Brooke from his past, he's refused to tell her about the family he came from or the painful way it fell apart. He’ll do anything to give her the future she deserves, even if it means keeping his distance to prevent history from repeating itself. As they grapple with the changes in their friendship, they realize moving apart won’t end their struggles. Only by taking the journey together can it lead to the redemption and love they both so desperately seek. We went on a family camping trip over this last weekend to Kerrville, Texas. The campground we chose sits right on the Guadalupe River. This is the same place where my husband and I camped for our second anniversary back in 2002, and I remember it was beautiful. My memory definitely hadn't done it justice. We got to see some gorgeous skies while we were there. From watching a storm roll in and then skirt around us to sunsets to bright full moons, there were plenty of views to photograph. The river itself had calm areas, mini waterfalls, and rapids. There was a bridge you could drive over, as well as the older bridge covered by some water that people can now walk across. While standing on the older bridge, I could look down and see minnows swim past my feet to splash downstream. I think our families have decided to make this an annual trip from now on, and I'm looking forward to going back to this place again! If you ever have a chance to visit the Texas Hill Country, you should. You won't regret it! I loved the reflections in this calm section of the Guadalupe River Texas truly has some of the most beautiful sunsets A full moon peeking out from behind the clouds Water lilies everywhere! This was a very slow "corner" of the river. This photo was taken with my phone. I didn't have time to pull my Canon out. If you look closely at the bottom right of the tree, you'll see a rock squirrel getting a drink of water from the river before climbing back up again. I thought that was such a neat thing to see!
Author Julie Arduini has been to kind to stop by and tell us more about herself and her newest release. Please join me in welcoming her! Julie Arduini loves to encourage readers to surrender the good, the bad, and ---maybe one day---the chocolate. She’s the author of ENTRUSTED: Surrendering the Present, as well as ENTANGLED: Surrendering the Past. The last book in the series, ENGAGED: Surrendering the Future, is coming in June. She also shares her story in the infertility devotional, A WALK IN THE VALLEY. She blogs every other Wednesday for Christians Read, and also is a blogger for Inspy Romance. She resides in Ohio with her husband and two children. Learn more by visiting her at http://juliearduini.com, where she invites readers to subscribe to her monthly newsletter full of resources and giveaway opportunities. Connect with Julie: Facebook | Twitter | G+ | Pinterest | Instagram Snapchat | Goodreads | Amazon | Monthly Newsletter Trish Maxwell’s back in Speculator Falls with egg on her face and a lot of apologies to make. She left the mountain town for her dream job in New York City, only to come back unemployed. With no prospects, she works at her mom’s department store and makes amends as she finds a new passion creating window displays for Adirondack businesses. She works hard and tries to convince the people of Speculator Falls she’s changed for the better. As Trish pitches in with community events, she meets paramedic Wayne Peterson, the one man who doesn’t seem to judge her. She even makes friends with Jenna Regan, who helps Trish when people demand to know what’s next in Trish’s life. Living in New York City has been her goal, but the more she’s around Wayne and the Adirondack area, the more she’s drawn to revising her plans. Just when Trish thinks the plan for her life’s coming together, a second chance comes her way that could give her every career goal she’s ever wanted, but threaten to tear her and Wayne apart. Can Trish surrender fears about her future and discover God’s plan for her? Author Interview Me: Hi, Julie! Thanks so much for being here today. If there’s one thing you hope readers come away with after reading your book, what would it be?
Julie: My prayer is that through Trish’s experience, readers will find freedom through surrender. In Trish’s case, she needed to let go of her dreams to find God’s best plan for her. I believe God wants to do that for all of us. Me: What is one of the most challenging things you’ve faced as an author? Julie: I really struggled writing ENTANGLED. The anxiety that comes with writing the second book is real. I also knew Carla’s story about surrendering regret was important, but I couldn’t relate to her as I could Jenna (ENTRUSTED) or Trish. It was also my first book where I was publishing it under my own imprint as an author and speaker as Surrendered Scribe Media. I re released ENTRUSTED and released ENTANGLED at the same time. Two weeks before the release my step son married and our son graduated high school. I literally made myself sick from the stress I put on myself. That said, the feedback was amazing. It sounds like writing ENTANGLED was a real challenge. Sometimes I think those books end up reflecting the emotions that we go through as we write them. I'm sorry you ended up so stressed and sick! Me: Is there a special treat or drink that helps you during your writing process? Julie: With ENGAGED, I found a coffee smoothie that I enjoyed. It was during this book I found more lower carb items to enjoy, and this drink hit the spot. Me: Are you an introvert or an extrovert? Julie: I tell people I am an introvert’s introvert. Through other ministries I am often with others serving. I mentor women a lot through encouragement and one-on-one Bible study. I’m a Sunday School teacher, I work with teen girls, and I lead Bible studies online. I pray a lot with women from across the country, often online. These things take a lot of energy, and I physically need space and time apart to regroup. Me: What project are you working on now? Julie: This summer I am working with our daughter on a series for tween girls about surrendering lies they believe. We think the series will be called Surrendering Stinkin’ Thinkin’ and I am excited. Hannah can plot books better than I can, and her ideas are amazing. She is a teen with rare health issues that are not always visible, and her strength and endurance is inspiring. This fall I’ll start book one of six in my new series about Surrendering Opinions. It’s about sextuplets who are thrust in a national spotlight because of their birth, and then forever in the limelight because of a tragedy. Now young adults, they are trying to find their own identities amidst the community that helped raise them. They are also each trying to find love as strong as what their parents had. I have a series prologue included in ENGAGED, and I’m very excited about it! Wow, both projects sound awesome!! Me: What inspired the cover for your latest book? Julie: I was looking for something to complement the other books in the series. Because it is the last in the series, I went with a sunset, and a glimpse of what could be the Adirondack Mountains. The couple really felt like Wayne and Trish to me, so I’m very pleased with it. Isn't it great when you find the perfect cover?! Thanks so much, Julie. It's been wonderful visiting with you. Congratulations again on your new release! Here's a nice selection of new releases from my fellow authors. I hope you'll load up your Kindle with some of these great titles! June 29th Crazy About Alaska by Shannon L. Brown June 30th The Heartland Homecoming Universe Bundle by VL Holt and other authors July 7th Finding Peace: Rebecca, Wife of Enos by Angelique Conger Beauty's Kiss by C. S. Johnson July 10th Acting Married by Victorine E. Lieske July 11th On Waves of Wanderlust by Liwen Ho Kim (Beach Brides Book 8) by Magdalena Scott July 17th Love's Light by Raine English July 18th Rose (Beach Brides Book 9) by Shanna Hatfield On Board for Romance by Annalisa Daughety Darker Days (As the Ash Fell Book 2) by AJ Powers July 19th Love's Highway by Jane Lebak Love's First Kiss by Stacy Claflin July 25th Lily (Beach Brides Book 10) by Ciara Knight July 27th Season of Hope by Alexa Verde Check out these new releases from authors involved with American Christian Fiction Writers. You're sure to find a new favorite! Contemporary Romance:
On Love’s Gentle Shore by Liz Johnson — When Natalie O’Ryan’s fiancé books their wedding in her hometown, Natalie didn’t know the only reception venue available would be an old barn belonging to Justin Kane–the best friend she left behind all those years ago after promising to stay. As they work together to get the dilapidated building ready for the party, Natalie and Justin discover the groundwork for forgiveness–and that there may be more than an old friendship between them. (Contemporary Romance from Revell – A Division of Baker Publishing Group) Their Ranch Reunion by Mindy Obenhaus — Single mom Carly Wagner is surprised to learn she’ll have to share ownership of the home she’s inherited with her first love—and first heartbreak—Andrew Stephens. The man who fled their tiny Western town is back and standing in the way of her dreams to expand her B and B. Now a successful businessman, Andrew has eight weeks to buy Carly out. But Carly’s too stubborn to persuade—and too beautiful to ignore. When fire ravages her inn and she and her daughter move in to their shared property, Andrew’s in over his head. Time is running out and Andrew must decide: leave and chase another deal…or stay and chase Carly’s heart. (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin]) Time and Tide by Kristen Terrette — Recovering from addiction and a near death experience, Chad moves to Moanna Island, a small island close to Savannah off the Atlantic coast, to begin a job with his family’s real estate empire, a job he was supposed to have taken years ago. Free-spirited Ryan Mason is a Moanna local girl from a blue-collar family. She’s dropped her own dreams to help her father care for her schizophrenic brother. When Chad and Ryan meet at the rehabilitation center where her brother lives, feelings develop between them. Can their crazy worlds ever fit together once he learns her secret and she finds out he is the sole heir to the Cusher Empire? (Contemporary from Hartwood Publishing Group) Just Look Up by Courtney Walsh — When a workaholic interior designer returns to her hometown to check on her brother’s welfare, she reconnects with a soldier, secretly in love with her, over a renovation project that will help the struggling town. (Contemporary Romance from Tyndale House) Cozy Mystery: A Tempting Taste of Mystery by Elizabeth Ludwig — Judging a pie contest leads Cheryl Cooper and friends into mayhem and mystery after someone begins methodically sabotaging the entries. (Cozy Mystery from Guideposts Publications) Over Maya Dead Body by Sandra Orchard — FBI Special Agent Serena Jones arrives on Martha’s Vineyard with her family, ready for a little bit of R&R and a whole lot of reminiscing as they celebrate the engagement of an old family friend. But crime doesn’t take a vacation, and she’s soon entangled in an investigation of a suspicious death tied to an antiquities smuggling ring.When her investigation propels her into danger, Serena must stay the course and solve this case before anyone else dies. But just how is she supposed to do that when the two men in her life arrive on the scene, bringing with them plenty of romantic complications–and even a secret or two? (Cozy Mystery from Revell [Baker]) Historical Romance: The American Conquest (Window to the Heart Sage, Book 3) by Jenna Brandt — Margaret must leave behind her title and wealth in Europe in order to escape and start a new life in the Colorado Territory. (Historical Romance, Independently Published) Of Rags and Riches Romance Collection by Susanne Dietze, Michelle Griep, Anne Love, Gabrielle Meyer, Natalie Monk, Jennifer Uhlarik, Erica Vetsch, Jaime Jo Wright, and Kathleen Y’Barbo — Journey along in nine historical romances with those whose lives are transformed by the opulence, growth, and great changes taking place in America’s Gilded Age. Nine couples meet during these exhilarating times and work to build a future together through fighting for social reform, celebrating new opportunities for leisure activities, taking advantage of economic growth and new inventions, and more. Watch as these romances develop and legacies of faith and love are formed. (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing) A Rebel in My House by Sandra Merville Hart — Promises can be impossible to keep–especially when a Confederate soldier trapped behind enemy lines looks to a Gettysburg seamstress for help. (Historical Romance from Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas) A Match for Melissa by Susan Karsten — Wanting a godly husband, Melissa’s only choice is to follow her father’s wishes, even when doing so may not achieve the desires of her heart. (Historical Romance from Prism Book Group [Pelican]). My Heart Belongs on Mackinac Island by Carrie Fancett Pagels — Moor your heart on Mackinac Island along with resident sweetheart Maude Welling, an heiress trying to prove her worth by working incognito as a maid at the Grand Hotel. Meet Ben Steffans, a journalist posing as a wealthy industrialist who has come to the island to uncover a story about impoverished men pursuing heiresses at the famed hotel. Will a growing love between Maude and Ben be scuttled when truths are revealed in this Gilded Age romance? (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing) Salvation by the Sea by Kristen Reed — Life has been anything but easy for Muirigan thanks to a series of life-altering calamities, but she’s found peace with her new, understated life by the sea. However, the maid’s past comes back to haunt her when she saves the shipwrecked Prince Halvard one morning. Failing to recognize one of his dearest childhood friends, the prince invites Muirigan to live at court as a reward for her valiant heroism. As the two reconnect, something deeper than friendship blossoms, but will their newfound affection survive when Muirigan’s lies are revealed and Halvard learns the truth about what has befallen since their tragic separation? (Historical Romance, Independently Published) Romantic Suspense: Beneath Copper Falls by Colleen Coble — As a 911 dispatcher, Dana Newell takes pride in being calm in tough circumstances. In addition to her emotionally-charged career, she’s faced enough emergencies in her own life. She recently escaped her abusive fiancé to move to tranquil Rock Harbor where she hopes life will be more peaceful. But the idyllic town hides more danger and secrets than it first appeared. Dana is continually drawn to her new friend Boone, who has scars inside and out. Then she answers a call at her job only to hear a friend’s desperate screams on the other end. Soon the pain in her past collides with the mysteries of her new home—and threatens to keep her from the future she’s always wanted. (Romantic Suspense from HarperCollins Christian Publishing [Thomas Nelson and Zondervan]) Speculative: The Genesis Tree by Heather L.L. FitzGerald — Deception is rampant, the enemy is subtle, and love dares to tug at Sadie’s heart amid the turmoil that forces her and her family back to the Tethered World below. (Speculative/Contemporary Fantasy from Mountain Brook Ink) How would you like the opportunity to get either a free book, information about a new releases, or pick up a great book for only 99 cents? What if you could be guaranteed every one of those books were a sweet read?
Then July is your month! Join us for Sweet Romance Reads July Book Blast! Every day through the month of July, visit our blog for some amazing deals, free books, and news about new releases. Trust me, you won't want to miss a single day! Thanks so much for joining me as I welcome Kimberly Rose Johnson. We're chatting about her new release, An Encore for Estelle (Melodies of Love Book 2). Kimberly Rose Johnson married her college sweetheart and lives in the Pacific Northwest. From a young child Kimberly has been an avid reader. That love of reading fostered a creative mind and led to her passion for writing. She especially loves romance and writes contemporary romance that warms the heart and feeds the soul. Kimberly holds a degree in Behavioral Science from Northwest University in Kirkland, Washington. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers. The theater ties them together but a painful past could pull them apart. At a crossroads, former movie star Estelle Rogers, returns to the place that set her life on a new course. Although she expects a rough reception she is pleasantly surprised and quickly settles into her new position at the local children's theater. But her road back to acting isn't as smooth as she would like. Tragedy brought Blake Price to Oak Knoll, Oregon, but it's love that keeps him there. His late wife and daughter loved acting, and he owes it to them to honor their memory with the children’s theater, but his new assistant is making changes he isn’t ready for both at the theater and in his heart. Can he forgive himself and move forward, or will he forever be tied to the biggest mistake of his life? Author Interview Me: Welcome, Kimberly, and thank you for joining us!
Kimberly: Thanks, Melanie! I’m happy to be here. Me: What inspired you to write your newest release? Kimberly: An Encore for Estelle is the next book in my Melodies of Love series. I hadn’t intended to make this a series, but after the first book, A Love Song for Kayla released readers wanted to know when the next book in the series would release. I didn’t want to disappoint anyone, so I got busy writing Estelle’s story. We first meet Estelle in book one. Me: What is one of the most challenging things you’ve faced as an author? Kimberly: Time and eye fatigue have been my biggest challenges lately. That being said there are so many other challenges. I think my biggest challenges change depending on where I’m at in the process. For example when a book first releases my biggest challenge is getting the word out about the book. Me: What do you usually use when you’re writing? A computer? Paper and pen? Kimberly: I almost always write on my laptop. On occasion if inspiration strikes when I’m not at my computer, I will write it down or type a note to myself on my phone. When I am brainstorming I will often do that with pen and paper. I like to see things on actual paper, when I’m working things out in my head. Me: Is there a special treat or drink that helps you during your writing process? Kimberly: I love a good chai tea latte. The little bit of caffeine and sweetness gives me a boost. I used to be a coffee girl, but it bothers my stomach now. Me: Are you an introvert or an extrovert? Kimberly: I am an introvert. For me social media is that greatest invention because it’s not nearly as tiring as visiting with people in person. That being said, I love meeting friends for coffee/tea. I can definitely relate! I'm so thankful to be able to reach readers through the internet because I get so nervous in person! lol Me: What project are you working on now? Kimberly: I am currently writing A Waltz for Amber. It is the next book in my Melodies of Love series. Each book focuses on one of the arts. That's great! I love that you're continuing the series. Me: What part of writing is your favorite? Plotting, writing, editing, etc. Kimberly: I enjoy the writing. I don’t love plotting—I prefer to write as the story comes to me rather than plot the book out in advance. I plot as much as necessary before I start so I know how it begins and ends, but that’s it. I really dislike editing. Thanks again for joining us and congratulations again on your latest release. Faith, Hope & Love is a special interest chapter of Romance Writers of America. They provide support to authors (and aspiring authors) who write Christian fiction. Every month, they host a Facebook party where readers can chat with several authors.
This month, I'm excited to be one of those authors. I'll be joined by Theresa Lynn Hall and Anne Greene. I hope you'll come by and chat with us. You might even win one of our giveaways! |
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