Blog Posts

April Author Newsletter (2016)

4/5/2016

Happy April!

Hello, my blog friends! I'm happy to be back after last month's hiatus. How are you all doing this lovely month?

Life Stuff:

The Hubbins and I celebrated our 2nd anniversary this month, so it's already been a great month. :) Same as last month, I've been busy with church, friends, and my job, but this month, I'm hoping to be able to read and write more. What are your goals this month?

Writing Stuff:

I haven't had a ton of spare time, but I've been taking James Patterson's MasterClass over the past month. It's very informative and I've been enjoying it. I'm still writing when I can.

Reading Stuff:

Since my last post, I've read:

And I'm currently reading:

What are you reading?

Prayer Request Stuff:

Here are the prayer requests I've received over the last month:

Stella P. - Prayers needed for my daughter. She is a diabetic and having some heart problems as well as clogged arteries in her legs.

Sonja N. - Need some prayers due to the passing of my father. Pretty hard.

Penny M. - I have a prayer request for our middle son who may have to have surgery for a torn ACL. He is in pain but very stubborn so he is still at college till the MRI. Thank you and God Bless.

Chris W. - Please keep our 14 mth old grandbaby in your prayers fir a speedy recovery from RSV & pnemonia & a stubborn diaper rash that continues.

Linda M. - I need unspoken prayers for my life in general. Thanks.

Stella P. - Prayers please for my husband who has Congestive Heart Failure.

And here is the list from the month before:

Kathy A. - Thank you for praying for my pregnant daughter. She has improved greatly. Please pray for me. I have a couple of health concerns. Facing my third mammogram and breast ultrasound next week and my left eye is severely inflammed. Thank you.

Sonja N. - For the prayer list, my dad, Heinz that he will find the health care he needs.

Last Month's Requests:

Penny M. - Prayers for all in need this Thanksgiving and beyond. God Bless

Kathy A. - Asking prayer for my daughter who is pregnant. She has been sick so much and having a difficult time.

Sally D. - My new baby granddaughter was born 10 weeks premature, weighed 2 lb 11 oz. After 4 months, she's over 10 lbs! I am very thankful for this miracle, praising the Lord!

Me - I requested prayer for Heidi T., who was battling cancer and in hospice. Heidi went to be with the Lord a week before Christmas. I was able to visit with her a few days before she passed and she was full of faith, hope, and peace. Please keep her family and friends in your prayers.

Thanks so much for your prayers, friends.

Bible Reading Stuff:

Over the last month, I have been working through the Bible study "12 Women of the Bible" by Lysa TerKeurst and multiple other authors. I've really enjoyed it. :)

With the Bible app on my phone, I listened to Song of Solomon, Philemon, and Deuteronomy. (Over the last year, I've been reading randomly selected books of the Bible using Random.org to pick a number. It's different, but I have been switching between the Old and New Testament regularly and I like that it keeps things fresh.) What have you been reading lately?

February and March's Winners:

And the winners of last month's giveaways are:

An American Gothic by Alice K. Arenz - Linda Kish*

Cowboy in the Moonlight by Sheryl Marcoux - Diana*

Kings of Renown: Betrayal by Julie Fugate - Becky Lee*

Sapphire Secrets by Dawn V Cahill - Valerie Schlicht*

A Reluctant Assassin by JC Morrows - Raechel L.*

Restored by Tanya Eavenson - Trixi*

Over My Dead Body by James R. Callan - Ann Badder

Where She Belongs by Johnnie Alexander - Anne Gooch

All winners have a month to reply to my emails or I will draw a new winner. * = winner has claimed her prize. Prizes will be mailed within a month.

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Author Mini-view and Giveaway: Jennifer Slattery and "Breaking Free"

4/5/2016

15 Comments

About the Book:

Sometimes it takes losing everything to grab hold of what really matters.

Women’s ministry leader and Seattle housewife, Alice Goddard, and her successful graphic-designer husband appear to have it all together. Until their credit and debit cards are denied, launching Alice into an investigation that only leads to the discovery of secrets. Meanwhile, her husband is trapped in a downward spiral of lies, shame, and self-destruction. Can they break free from their deception and turn to the only One who can save them? And will it be in time to save their marriage?

Breaking Free, part of NHP contemporary fiction line, is a great reminder that God can take any broken life and redeem it for His plan and purpose. Readers will fall in love with the realistic characters and enjoy the combination of depth, heart-felt emotion, and humor that makes Jennifer's novels so appealing. Readers will be inspired to break free and find God in the complexities of their own lives!

This book is a great resource for a book club, discussion group in women’s Bible studies, or as a ministry resource to spark conversation about practical ministry needs.

Author Mini-view:

Hello, blog friends! Happy April! I hope it finds you doing well!

Joining us today for an author mini-view and giveaway is the lovely Jennifer Slattery. Let's get this interview started!

Tell us a bit about yourself and your writing. (How did you get started? How many books have you written? Where are you on your writing journey?)

Though I've always enjoyed writing, I'd never considered pursuing it as a career until I was asked to write a story for my previous church's children's program. As I brainstormed the story, I realized how much I enjoyed the creative process. This felt very much like an ah-ha moment, and I began to play around with storytelling. In 2009, after about three years of "experimentation," I decided to get serious about this writing thing and determined I wanted to hone my skills so that I could one day become a published writer.

What is your favorite Bible verse?

I think my favorite Bible verse changes depending on what I'm going through. I really love Proverbs 4:25-27, which says, Look straight ahead, and fix your eyes on what lies before you. Mark out a straight path for your feet; stay on the safe path. Don’t get sidetracked; keep your feet from following evil." This passage speaks to an author's need to stay focused on what God is calling them to do.

What have you read lately that you would recommend?

I just finished "A Rush of Wings" by Kristen Heitzmann and absolutely loved everything about it. The small, mountain town setting, the intrigue, the sweet romance... Excellent book!

What book are you featuring today?

You're featuring my fourth novel, "Breaking Free."

Here's the back cover text:
Sometimes it takes losing everything to grab hold of what really matters.

Women’s ministry leader and Seattle housewife, Alice Goddard, and her successful graphic-designer husband appear to have it all together. Until their credit and debit cards are denied, launching Alice into an investigation that only leads to the discovery of secrets. Meanwhile, her husband is trapped in a downward spiral of lies, shame, and self-destruction. Can they break free from their deception and turn to the only One who can save them? And will it be in time to save their marriage?

You can read a free, 33-page excerpt here: http://newhopepublishers.com/2016/02/free-sample-of-breaking-free/

If you could tell people who are going to read/have read your books one thing, what would it be?

I think I'd just tell them to enjoy them, and then to connect with me to let me know what character/s they connected with most. I love chatting with readers about my stories! Or books period.

About the Author:

Jennifer Slattery loves connecting with readers and writers! You can find her on Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest.

She writes missional romance novels for New Hope Publishers, Christian living articles for Crosswalk.com, and devotions for Internet Café Devotions, the group blog, Faith-filled Friends, and her personal blog. She also does content editing for Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas’ Firefly imprint, and loves working with authors who are serious about pursuing their calling. When not writing, reading, or editing, Jennifer loves going on mall dates with her adult daughter and coffee dates with her hilariously fun husband.

Visit with Jennifer online at JenniferSlatteryLivesOutLoud.com.

Giveaway!

Jennifer is generously giving away a print copy of "Breaking Free" to one of you subscribers! Just fill out the Giveaway Tools form below to enter. (If it doesn't show up in the email, click here and go to http://www.annaweaverbooks.com/giveaways to enter from the website.) Giveaway ends 4/12. Thanks for participating and God bless!

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Author Mini-view and Giveaway: Johnnie Alexander and "Where She Belongs"

3/29/2016

24 Comments

About the Book:

Shelby Kincaid is ready to move on from her grief. With high hopes for the future, she longs to purchase her family’s ancestral homestead so she can raise her young daughters in the only place she ever truly belonged. She plans to transform the abandoned house into the perfect home of her memories. But she’ll have her work cut out for her.

AJ Sullivan never wanted the homestead. Inherited as a punishment from his grandfather, it has sat empty for fifteen years and fallen into ruin. He’s glad to finally unload it. But a clean break isn’t possible when he can’t get the young widow Shelby off his mind.

Welcome to Misty Willow, a place that will have as great a hold over the reader as it does over its inhabitants.

Author Mini-view:

Hello, friends! Can you believe that it's the last week of March already? I sure can't!

We have another author mini-view and giveaway on the books this week and the lovely Johnnie Alexander is joining us. Let's get this interview started!

Tell us a bit about yourself and your writing. (How did you get started? How many books have you written? Where are you on your writing journey?)

I wrote about my writing journey when Anna featured my historical novel Where Treasure Hides a few months ago. After it was published, I returned to a story I first started as part of NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) way back in 2005.

I’d gone back to this story several times because of its deeply personal premise. It’s about someone who desperately wants to raise her children in the house where she herself experienced such happy memories. I had lived in a house like that as a teenager, and I would have loved to raise my children there. Circumstances didn’t allow that, but I poured my own desire into my protagonist. We had little else in common, but we did have that—the love for a 19th century brick house that had been abandoned for a time.

When I sent the proposal to my agent, she suggested creating a series. I added a few paragraphs for a couple more stories to the proposal and a few months later signed a contract with Revell.
Where She Belongs is the first story in the Misty Willow Series. The second, When Love Arrives, releases in September, and I’m busy writing the third story which releases next year.
My first novella, The Healing Promise, will be included in Barbour’s Courageous Brides Collection which releases in July.

What is your favorite Bible verse?

I have more than one so I’ll share a different one this time than I did before. These verses are a theme in Where She Belongs and my heroine’s favorites, too.
He brought me into a spacious place; he rescued me because he delighted in me (Psalm 18:19, NIV).
I will be glad and rejoice in your love . . . You have not given me into the hands of the enemy but have set my feet in a spacious place (Psalm 31:7-8 NIV).
The promise of God setting my feet in a spacious place resonates with me during tough times.

What have you read lately that you would recommend?

The last novel I read was The Pawn by Stephen James. I have the next book in that series on my Kindle, but I’m afraid to begin it. Once I do, I won’t want to put it down. And I’ve got my own book to get written first!

What book are you featuring today?

Where She Belongs is about Shelby Kincaid, a young widow who dreams of raising her children in the place where she most felt loved and cherished. Sadly, the house that once belonged to her grandparents has stood empty and desolate for about fourteen years. The current owner, AJ Sullivan, is glad to get rid of the house which he inherited as a punishment from his grandfather.
As Shelby’s and AJ’s lives intertwine, they discover how their grandparents’ long ago decisions have affected them both in good ways and sad ways.

If you could tell people who are going to read/have read your books one thing, what would it be?

Be aware of the memories you’re creating for those you love.

About the Author:

Johnnie Alexander writes inspiring stories that linger in the heart. Where Treasure Hides, her debut novel, won the ACFW Genesis Contest (2011) and Golden Leaf Award (2014). Her first contemporary romance, Where She Belongs (Misty Willow Series; Revell), and her first novella, The Healing Promise (Courageous Bride Collection; Barbour), release in 2016.

She also has won Best Novel and Best Writer awards (Florida Christian Writers Conferences), and Bronze Medalist (My Book Therapy Frasier Contest). She volunteers as a category coordinator for the ACFW Genesis Contest, judges various contests, and serves as marketing director for the MidSouth Christian Writers Conference.

A graduate of Rollins College (Orlando) with a Master of Liberal Studies degree, Johnnie treasures family memories, classic movies, road trips, and stacks of books. She lives in the Memphis area with a small herd of alpacas and Rugby, the princely papillon who trees raccoons.

Amazon
Barnes & Noble
Christian Book Distributors (ChristianBook.com)

Giveaway!

Johnnie is generously giving the winner's choice of an e-book or paperback copy of "Where She Belongs" to one of my blog subscribers! (Paperback copies available for US winners only, but e-book copies are available for international winners.) Just fill out the Giveaway Tools form below to enter. (If it doesn't show up in the email, click here http://www.annaweaverbooks.com/giveaways to enter from the website.) Giveaway ends 4/5. Thanks for participating and God bless!

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Author Mini-view and Giveaway: James R. Callan and "Over My Dead Body"

3/22/2016

4 Comments

About the Book:

A large corporation is taking land by eminent domain. Syd Cranzler stands in its way, threatening a court battle. After a heated meeting with the corporation representative, Syd is found dead from an overdose of heart medication. The police call it suicide. Case closed.

But Father Frank, Syd’s pastor, and Georgia Peitz, another member of the church, don’t believe Syd committed suicide and begin to look for clues of what really happened. And this has an ill affect on Georgia’s budding romance with the lead detective.

When the priest is almost poisoned, they convince the police to investigate further. Immediately, Father Frank becomes the target of rumors and speculation he might have had something to do with Syd’s death.

The more clues Father Frank and Georgia uncover, the more danger they find themselves in. Can they find the real killer before they become victims?

"What is truly impressive about Callan's writing is his gift for characterization." From a review by John Brantingham of Over My Dead Body

Over My Dead Body, is available at: http://amzn.to/1BmYQ0Q

Author Mini-view:

Hello, blog friends!

I hope everyone is doing well during this week before Easter. Do you have any exciting plans this Sunday?

James R. Callan is joining me today and featuring his book "Over My Dead Body", so let's get this interview started!

1. Tell us a bit about yourself and your writing. (How did you get started? How many books have you written? Where are you on your writing journey?)

After a successful career in mathematics and computer science, I turned to my first love - writing. I've written books on the craft of writing (at the request of a publisher), but my passion is writing mystery and suspense books. My eleventh book will be published later this spring.

2. What have you read lately that you would recommend?

I recently was a beta reader for Donn Taylor's Murder Mezzo Forte and I would recommend it to anyone.

3. What book are you featuring today?

Today, I an featuring Over My Dead Body, the second Father Frank Mystery. It is set in a small east Texas town. All my fiction books feature protagonists who do not intend to solve mysteries, but can't let the "bad guys" win. And in my books, the good guys always win.

About the Author:

James R. Callan had a successful career in mathematics and computer science, receiving grants from the National Science Foundation and NASA. He left the technology field to pursue his real love, writing. He has had four non-fiction books published, but his passion is mystery and suspense novels. His eleventh book is scheduled to be published in spring, 2016.

Giveaway:

James is generously giving one e-book copy of "Over My Dead Body" to one of my blog subscribers! Just fill out the Giveaway Tools form below to enter. (If it doesn't show up in the email, click here http://www.annaweaverbooks.com/giveaways to enter from the website.) Giveaway ends 3/29. Thanks for participating and God bless!

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Review: The Good Girl by Christy Barritt

3/22/2016

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About the Book:

What's a good girl to do when life goes bad?

Tara Lancaster can sing Amazing Grace in three harmonies, two languages, and interpret it for the hearing impaired. She can list the Bible canon backward, forward, and alphabetized. And the only time she ever missed church was at seventeen because she had pneumonia and her mom made her stay home.

But when her life shatters around her and her reputation is left in ruins, Tara decides escape is the only option. She flees halfway across the country to dog-sit, but the quiet anonymity she needs isn't waiting in her sister's house. Instead she finds a knife with a threatening message, a fame-hungry friend, a too-hunky neighbor, and evidence of...a ghost?

Following all the rules has gotten her nowhere. And nothing she learned in Sunday School can tell her where to go from there.

"The Good Girl is at turns scary, funny, passionate and quirky...the perfect book to carry in your beach bag." ~ USA Today

My Thoughts:

I’ll admit it… I let this book sit waiting on my Kindle for way too long before picking it up. Because I’ve always identified myself as a “good girl” like Tara Lancaster, the main character, I’ve been intrigued by her story. I’m so glad I found time to read this great book.

Tara has been a “good girl” her entire life and nothing has panned out like she wanted it to. In fact, her life has fallen apart in a huge, public way. She struggles with feelings of abandonment and disillusionment towards God. Having been in ministry myself for a large portion of my life, I could totally relate to her feelings when things don’t turn out like I plan and I end up hurt and dejected. Little thoughts whisper into my ear just like they did in hers, things like “Isn’t life supposed to be easier because I’m doing what God wants? Isn’t God supposed to bless me more because I “earned” it?” Like Tara, I had to learn that it isn’t about what we do or how good we are. It’s all about Jesus and when we take our eyes off Him and settle our sights on other things, whether it’s becoming the “perfect” Christian or developing our own set of rules, it’s only a matter of time before we slip and fall.

When she runs away to Minnesota to house-sit for her sister, the last thing she expects is to find… something… that obviously doesn’t want her in the house. What follows is a mystery of intrigue, spookiness, and danger as she tries to figure out who or what is haunting her sister’s house. Cooper, the hunky boy-next-door comes to her aid and adds a lovely touch of romance to this story.

It was an easy, quick read and the tension was spread nicely throughout the book. I give this great read 5 stars!

Amazon Link:

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Author Mini-view and Giveaway: Tanya Eavenson and "Restored"

3/15/2016

6 Comments

About the Book:

Dr. Steven Moore is known nationally for saving lives. If only he could save his own. Unable to deal with his cancer prognosis, he retreats to a happier time in his past—to the woman who once stole his heart.

Four years after the death of her beloved husband, bookstore owner Elizabeth Roberts still struggles to sustain her faith and joy in the Lord as she raises her two sons. She strives to find a way through her family's grief, never suspecting a man from her past might offer hope for her future.

But how can there be a future when he's only come to kiss her and says good-bye?

Author Mini-view:

Hello, friends! I hope everyone is having a lovely March so far! I'm back with another author mini-view this week and the lovely Tanya Eavenson is joining me. Let's get started!

1. Tell us a bit about yourself and your writing.

I’m a wife and a mom of three who enjoys books, coffee, and chocolate. I’m an inspirational romance author with two novels published, but I’ve also written several Bible studies that have been translated into different languages and published with Christ to the World Ministries. My life, including this writing journey God has called me to, all seem to revolve around one phrase--to walk by faith and not by sight.

2. What is your favorite Bible verse?

Luke 1:37 is one of my favorite verses and it revolves around the main theme for my new release entitled RESTORED. “For with God nothing shall be impossible.”

3. What have you read lately that you would recommend?

Honestly, I’m having reading withdraws! =) This spring I’ve set aside several weeks of reading time and I can’t wait!

4. What book are you featuring today?

RESTORED is a story about lost love being given a second chance when it’s least expected. Here’s the blurb.

Dr. Steven Moore is known nationally for saving lives. If only he could save his own. Unable to deal with his cancer prognosis, he retreats to a happier time in his past—to the woman who once stole his heart.

Four years after the death of her beloved husband, bookstore owner Elizabeth Roberts still struggles to sustain her faith and joy in the Lord as she raises her two sons. She strives to find a way through her family's grief, never suspecting a man from her past might offer hope for her future.

But how can there be a future when he's only come to kiss her and says good-bye?

5. If you could tell people who are going to read/have read your books one thing, what would it be?

I hope my readers will experience God’s love and faithfulness, feeling as if they were living in the character’s place. Recently I received a review from Restored and though it’s only a portion, here’s a small quote.

“Restored is one of those rare books in which I felt that I was growing along with the characters as they faced the 'life and death' challenges of a world beyond fiction and romance. This is indeed a genuine love story.

Conflict in "Restored" runs so deep and in so many different streams that without Steven and Elizabeth's abiding love of God and their trust in God's goodness, the resolution of this story would seem unsolvable. Yet with God and the inspirational power of the couple's love, Restored resolves almost impossible problems and makes the story seem not only possible but inevitable. Restored is a powerful story of love and faith.”

I pray God will continue to use me to glorify Him through my stories.

About the Author:

Tanya Eavenson enjoys spending time with her husband, and their three children. Her favorite pastime is grabbing a cup of coffee, eating chocolate, and reading a good book. Tanya is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Word Weavers International, and writes for Christ to the World Ministries. You can find her at her website http://www.tanyaeavenson.com/ on Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads, Google, or on Amazon.

Giveaway!

Tanya is generously giving one e-book copy of "Restored" to one of my blog subscribers! Just fill out the Giveaway Tools form below to enter. (If it doesn't show up in the email, click here http://www.annaweaverbooks.com/giveaways to enter from the website.) Giveaway ends 3/22. Thanks for participating and God bless!

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Author Mini-view and Giveaway: JC Morrows and "A Reluctant Assassin"

3/8/2016

12 Comments

About the Book:

"A Reluctant Assassin"

Her mission was simple — get close to the Prince, and kill him. . .

Kayden entered the palace under a lie, one designed to get her close to the Prince. On the outside, she may look like a princess but beneath the mask, a killer lays in wait — for the perfect moment.

Dvarius was not ready to take the crown, nor was he ready for a wife . . .

But due to his father’s unexpected death and an archaic law — he must find a bride before he is allowed to take his rightful place on the throne.

And the one woman he wants — just might be the one who is there to kill him…

"A Treacherous Decision"

Kayden's mission should have been simple - she was sent to kill the prince . . . not to fall in love with him.

Within the palace walls, Kayden has discovered that things are not as she expected. Is there more to the royal family, or . . . is there a more sinister depth to Drey's mission?

Dvarius thought his mind was made up - but will he have the resolve to see it through?

Between attacks from outside the palace - and within, will the Prince live long enough to choose his Queen?

And will Kayden choose to follow her head . . . or her heart, knowing that her decision could very well make her a target as well!

Author Mini-view:

Hello, blog friends! I hope everyone is having a fantastic week! I'm delighted to introduce JC Morrows here on the blog today. As you can see, she is featuring her book "The Reluctant Assassin." Let's get this interview started!

Tell us a bit about yourself and your writing. (How did you get started? How many books have you written? Where are you on your writing journey?)

I enjoy making up stories and living in a world of my own making... I think I must have always had a storyteller nature. My mother laughs every time she reads my bio because she says it sounds like I was always telling tall tales as a child. Of course... the stories I told... well, anyone would have known they were a lot more than tall tales.

What is your favorite Bible verse?

Habakkuk 2:2 - And the Lord answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it.

What have you read lately that you would recommend?

I highly recommend "The Liberation" by Marissa Shrock. And you may want to start with the first book in her series: "The First Principle". AMAZING stories... both!

What book are you featuring today?

My favorite quote from "A Reluctant Assassin" is one that I never intended to write... And once I did, it changed the entire direction of the story: "What if Cinderella had been sent to kill the Prince?"

If you could tell people who are going to read/have read your books one thing, what would it be?

Please don't be angry. I really didn't intend to torture everyone with cliffhanger endings. I promise. That is the way God gave them to me.

About the Author:

JC Morrows - Bestselling author of YA Christian speculative fiction, drinker of coffee and avid reader - is a storyteller in the truest sense of the word. JC has been telling stories in one form or another her entire life and once her mother convinced her to write them down, she couldn't stop.

She finished her first speculative fiction novel purely for the enjoyment of her mother - also known as her biggest fan.

She gives God all of the glory for her talent and ability!

"And the LORD answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it." Habakkuk 2:2 KJV

Website: http://jcmorrows.com
Amazon: http://amazon.com/author/jcmorrows
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7279550.J_C_Morrows
Instagram: http://instagram.com/jcmorrows
Twitter: https://twitter.com/JCMorrows
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/jcmorrows/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JC.Morrows.Author

Giveaway!

JC is generously giving away the winner's choice of an e-copy or paperback copy of "A Reluctant Assassin" to one lucky winner! Just fill out the Giveaway Tools form below to enter. The giveaway ends 3/16. Thanks for participating and God bless!

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Author Mini-view and Giveaway: Angela Ruth Strong and a Kindle Fire!

3/1/2016

17 Comments

Hello, blog friends! I hope you are all having a wonderful week! This week, I am participating in the Books & Beverages Blog Tour. Here is a little bit of information about that:

“Welcome to the Books & Beverages Blog Tour hosted by Mountain Brook Ink publishing! We’re so excited that you are joining us for the next two weeks of fun. We look forward to introducing you to some new authors -- maybe you’ll even find a new favorite! The tour begins at Annie Douglass Lima’s blog on February 15, 2016 and goes through March 1, 2016, ending with Anna Weaver Hurtt's. Please check below for the complete schedule of the tour.

Featured Authors:

Heather L.L. FitzGerald - Debut author of young adult fantasy series, The Tethered World Chronicles
Kimberly Rose Johnson - Multi-published author of sweet romance series, The Wildflower B&B Romance
Angela Ruth Strong - Multi-published author of Finding Love in Sun Valley, Idaho, book one in the Resort to Love series

Each stop will include an opportunity to enter for a FREE KINDLE FIRE as the grand prize, as well as three runner-up opportunities to win a $10 Starbucks gift card! Check the bottom of the post for either a Rafflecopter FORM or a Rafflecopter link for your chance to enter!

The lovely Angela Ruth Strong is joining us today to tell us a little about herself and her writing, so let's get this interview started!

Author Mini-view:

#1. Tell us a bit about yourself and your writing. (How did you get started? How many books have you written? Where are you on your writing journey?)

In high school I had a basketball player run into me when I was cheerleading. I flew into the bleachers and broke four ribs. I wrote about it and sent it to American Cheerleader Magazine. They bought it and paid me one hundred bucks. That was the easiest I'd ever made money before. I wish it was always that easy.

I studied journalism at the University of Oregon finished my first novel in 2006 and a second one in 2007. I got interest from a publisher at a conference and then interest from an agent because I had interest from a publisher. While I was waiting for her to sell those books, the Love Finds You line of books put out a call for submissions. I honestly threw together three chapters in a day. When my agent called with good news, I was shocked to find out I'd sold the book I hadn't written yet rather than the other two that I'd spent months sweating over.

Since then, I've written in all kinds of genres. The books in my middle-grade series include The Water Fight Professional, The Snowball Fight Professional, The Food Fight Professional, and The Pillow Fight Professional. Fun for kids who enjoyed The Diary of a Wimpy Kid. My women's fiction title Lighten Up is about the daughter of a pastor who can't forgive her father for running off with the church secretary until she falls in love with her own pastor. Then I tried my hand at romantic suspense in a book set with my amazing critique group titled Team Love on the Run.

Currently, I just signed a contract for a 2017 release with Love Inspired Suspense, and I'm rereleasing my debut novel as Finding Love in Sun Valley since it is being considered for a movie (http://www.beliefnet.com/columnists/faithmediaandculture/2012/07/mpi-to-bring-popular-love-finds-you-book-series-to-television.html). This will be the first in my Resort to Love series with Finding Love in Big Sky, Montana releasing in November and Finding Love in Park City, Utah coming out next year. I love hanging out with the old characters again!!!

#2. What is your favorite Bible verse?

My favorite verse right now goes along with my word for the year, which is SATISFIED. I want to be satisfied by the things of God.
"Like a baby content in its mother's arms, my soul is a baby content." --Psalm 121:3b

#3. What have you read lately that you would recommend?

When I mentioned that I have awesome critique partners, I meant it. Heather Woodhaven writes for Love Inspired Suspense, but my favorite book she wrote is The Secret Life of Book Club. It follows the four members in book club as they decide to stop just reading about exciting stories and actually make their own lives an adventure. I laughed and cried and couldn't get the story out of my head for a long, long time. If you enjoy reading, you're sure to relate to these characters in some way.

#4. What book are you featuring today?

Finding Love in Sun Valley--Actress Emily Van Arsdale has returned to her Idaho hometown - with an entire film crew in tow! With its stunning scenery and reputation for hosting celebrities, Sun Valley is the perfect setting for Emily’s newest romantic comedy. Tracen Lake is happy to work as a stunt consultant for the movie but not as thrilled to deal with a bunch of high-maintenance Hollywood types. But Tracen is surprised to discover in Emily a down-to-earth Idaho girl who does all her own stunts and loves the outdoors. As filming wraps up and Emily heads off to her next gig, will she be able to leave Sun Valley - and Tracen - behind?

If you could tell people who are going to read/have read your books one thing, what would it be?

I used to think that writing romance was silly. I wanted to write "deeper" stuff that would change lives. But I've learned the hard way that there is nothing more important to write about than love. Love changes lives. And whether it's through my stories or through them smiling at a stranger, that's how we get to be Jesus to the world.

About the Blog Tour:

TOUR SCHEDULE:

2/15 - <a href="http://anniedouglasslima.blogspot.com/”> Annie Douglass Lima</a>
2/16 - <a href=”www.ghostryter.blogspot.com”> Beckah </a>
2/17 - <a href=”http://www.gingersolomon.com/blog/> Ginger Solomon </a>
2/18 - <a href=”http://www.sandrarobbins.net/> Sandra Robbins </a>
2/19 - <a href=”http://www.jlmbewe.com/> Jennette Mbewe </a>
2/20 - <a href=”http://plentifulpursuits.com> Erika Keswick</a>
2/21 - <a href=”https://mdeshaies.wordpress.com/”> Marisa Deshaies </a>
2/22 - <a href=”http://faithhopeandheartwarming.com/blog/”> Autumn Macarthur </a>
2/23 - <a href=”https://agreateryes.wordpress.com/”> Crystal Scott </a>
2/24 - <a href=”http://thegatheringfire.wordpress.com”> Stephanie Florentino </a>
2/25 - <a href=”http://dianasbookit.blogspot.com/”> Diana Montgomery </a>
2/26 - <a href=”http://www.liztolsma.com/”> Liz Tolsma </a>
2/27 - <a href=”http://sarahruut.com/”> Sarah Ruut </a>
2/28 - <a href=”http://notbybread.wordpress.com”> Ashley Taylor </a>
2/29 - <a href=”https://sparksofember.wordpress.com/”> Kat Vinson </a>
3/1 - <a href=”http://www.annaweaverbooks.com/giveaways”> Anna Weaver Hurrts </a>

Giveaway!

To enter the giveaway, just fill out the Rafflecopter form! Thanks for participating and God bless!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Author Mini-view and Giveaway: Dawn V. Cahill and "Sapphire Secrets"

2/23/2016

7 Comments

About the Book:

Filled with mystery, romance, and unforgettable characters, Sapphire Secrets is the story of a Seattle woman’s relentless pursuit of truth and God’s power to heal and transform broken lives.

Twins Livy and DeeDee McCreary open a dance studio in honor of their late mother, whom they lost when they were six. Problem is, Livy remembers nothing of the day her mother died. The more she questions her family about that awful day, the more she suspects she’s been lied to all her life. While she’s seeking answers to what really happened, she keeps crossing paths with handsome engineer Scott Lorenzo, who compels her to question the New Age philosophy she was raised on. What if there is a personal God out there who cares about her?

Before Livy can discover answers, a brutal accident interrupts her search. Her life flips upside down as she faces a future she is not prepared for. Yet the unanswered questions continue to haunt her. Can she find the strength to keep on with her quest, even if it means losing the two people most dear to her—her twin, and the man she loves?

2015 Finalist, ACFW First Impressions Contest

Author Mini-view:

Hello, lovely blog readers! It's a beautiful Tuesday here in NW Florida and I'm excited to be bringing you another author feature and giveaway. Today, the lovely Dawn V. Cahill is joining us... Let's get this interview started!

Tell us a bit about yourself and your writing. (How did you get started? How many books have you written? Where are you on your writing journey?)

I'm fairly new to the author world, but already have two Kindle books published in my Seattle Trilogy series. I started my first novel in April 2013, joined writers' groups, and discovered real soon how much I still had to learn!

What is your favorite Bible verse?

My favorite verse: Psalm 16:11 - You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.(NKJV)

It's just a beautiful work of verbal art, don't you think? And belies the popular notion that a relationship with God is pure drudgery. Anything but!

What have you read lately that you would recommend?

I've discovered a new author, Kate Morton, who writes dense, gritty fiction filled with twists, turns, and a surprise at the end. I recently finished Lake House, and now I aspire to write that well myself.

What book are you featuring today?

My latest release, Sapphire Secrets, is filled with romance and mystery - the story of a young woman's quest for truth. She must learn the truth about how her mother died. As her journey progresses, she begins questioning the New Age beliefs she was raised on. What if there is a personal God who cares about her? But a brutal accident interrupts her search and...oh wait, I better not say any more!

If you could tell people who are going to read/have read your books one thing, what would it be?

Dear future readers: I write about the world as it is today, and not as it was 20 years ago. If you encounter strange, oddball characters in the pages of my books, well, it's only because they exist in real life too!

About the Author:

Author Dawn V. Cahill pens “Stories of Victorious Faith for the 21st Century,” nearly always with a crossword puzzle, sudoku, or dark chocolate nearby. “The characters in my stories face situations that would have been unthinkable even 20 years ago. We live in a vastly different world than our parents did, and that’s the world I write about.”

Seeing an unfilled niche in the Christian fiction market, Ms Cahill birthed Hot Topic Fiction at an intensive four-day writers conference. HTF isn’t afraid to explore the question, how does God want us to live out our faith in this not-so-brave new world? Without insulting the reader by offering pat or easy answers–because there aren’t any–HTF tells stories of ordinary Christians following hard after Christ in a world of terror and violence, of upside-down morality, of hostility to Judeo-Christian values.

Ms. Cahill also blogs about puppies, substance abuse, and single parenting…sometimes all in the same day. She’s going to finish that novel she started at age 11 called Mitch and the Martians…someday. She has written several newspaper articles, two Christian contemporary novels, and more limericks than she can count. Email her at [email protected], or find her on Facebook. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW).

Snippet:

From Chapter 1 -

As if the graveyard at midnight wasn’t eerie enough, Livy’s dad boomed out his annual recitation of Edgar Allan Poe.

“At midnight, in the month of June, I stand beneath the mystic moon—”

Tonight’s mystic moon glimmered around a cloud, through the tops of evergreens, trying in vain to cast a beam into the mild June night and Brighton Cemetery.

“Like ghosts the shadows rise and fall—”

Livy clutched a handful of flowers to her chest and focused on keeping her breath steady and even. Her feet snapped twigs as she and her twin, DeeDee, followed Dad’s flashlight arc along a row of oaks.

His baritone voice pierced the night. “My love, she sleeps! Oh may her sleep, as it is lasting, so be deep—”

A heavy wind sighed overhead. Branches creaked under the weight of the night. Livy dare not reach over and clasp her twin’s hand. If she did, her shaky grip would betray her. Gravel crunched behind her as the groundskeeper trailed them.

“Some sepulcher, remote, alone—”

Most people would never guess famed rocker Declan Decker quoted Edgar Allan Poe. Tonight he was plain old Dad, Howard McCreary, come to pay his respects on the twentieth anniversary of his late wife’s sudden passing.

“Oh to think, poor child of sin, It was the dead who groaned within.”

She ground her teeth to keep from telling him to shut up, he was spooking her. He’d only say twenty-six was far too old to let a midnight cemetery spook her. Still, at each nocturnal visit to Mom’s grave, a secret phobia gripped her. Coimetrophobia. Fear of cemeteries. Each year, she feigned indifference to the waving shadows and moaning wind. She forced herself to stroll with nonchalant strides like her no-nonsense twin.

Giveaway!

Dawn is generously giving one Kindle copy of "Sapphire Secrets" to one of my blog subscribers! Just fill out the Giveaway Tools form below to enter. (If it doesn't show up in the email, click here http://www.annaweaverbooks.com/giveaways to enter from the website.) Giveaway ends 3/1. Thanks for participating and God bless!

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Author Mini-view and Giveaway: Julie Fugate and "Kings of Renown: Betrayal"

2/16/2016

8 Comments

About the Book:

A seraphim angel joins the fallen and uses his abilities to enhance the human race. After re-pledging his allegiance to God, centuries later his mission collides with the lives of three human-angel hybrid teens.

High school outcast Tara Cox hates her career criminal dad. Despite her reluctance she's as talented at deception and secrecy as him. When new friends, including the guy she has a crush on, shows her kindness, she dreams of a different life that doesn’t involve violence and solitude.

Sixteen year-old Inara Mason desires to break away from her controlling dad. She develops a supernatural bond with a real angel who shows her monstrous mermaids and offers the illusion of love.

Former juvenile delinquent Leo Price struggles with the stigma of being a killer and keeping his love for Inara secret. He takes comfort in his dedication to God and the support of his mentor, Inara’s father. As evil closes in, they will fight for their lives, love, and the future of their souls.

Author Mini-view:

Hello, blog friends! It's a new week, so it's time for a new author interview and giveaway! Joining us this week is the lovely Julie Fugate. Let's get this interview started!

Tell us a bit about yourself and your writing. (How did you get started? How many books have you written? Where are you on your writing journey?)

Thank you for having me, Anna. As an avid reader, writing became a hobby. I’ve always leaned toward young adult maybe because I’ve had a heart for them throughout the years. I’ve worked with youth in my local church and volunteered as a CASA which is an advocate for abused/neglected kids who find themselves involved in the legal system. In 2013 I joined the ACFW, which had a huge impact on helping me hone and develop my writing skills—especially how to get the stories out of my head and across to a reader. In 2015 I was offered a contract for one of those stories, and in November of that same year my debut novel was published, a young adult, Urban Fantasy about angels, humans, and human-angel hybrids. At this time I continue to write, my goal to always improve and glorify God in the process.

What is your favorite Bible verse?

Philippians 4:8: Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.
I’ll probably always think of this as my favorite but different verses and parts of the Bible tend to rise to the surface throughout life.

In Kings of Renown BETRAYAL, I’ve peppered in various Bible verses. The most important for one of those characters, Tara, being Joshua 24:15. …Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve.

What have you read lately that you would recommend?

There are so many wonderful books and writers out there. I always have more on my want to read list than I have time for. Two Christian/Inspirational Writers I’ve read recently and enjoyed are Jill Williamson’s Kinsman Chronicles, an epic fantasy and Monica Mynk’s Cavernous, a young adult dystopian.

What book are you featuring today?

My debut novel, Kings of Renown BETRAYAL. It’s a young adult, urban fantasy with romance, action and suspense.

If you could tell people who are going to read/have read your books one thing, what would it be?

I hope you enjoy and remember there is real hope through Jesus to overcome all the dark shadows in your life. Love and prayers.

About the Author:

JULIE FUGATE writes young adult fiction where danger, suspense, romance and God collide. Her nicknames include Jay, Juju, Jules, Lizzie and Julio. A tomboy and girly-girl all wrapped into one. Growing up she would spend one hundred percent of her meager allowance on books. You could find her in the library, the porch swing, or in her room reading and listening to music. She fights off two German Shepherds and a snarky Maltese who try to take over her keyboard when she's writing.

Social Media Links:
Website: juliefugatebooks.com
Instagram: jfugatewrites
Twitter: @jfugatewrites
GoodReads: Julie Fugate
Facebook: julie.e.fugate

Buy Links:
Amazon: http://amzn.to/1YkskdB
Barnes&Noble: http://bit.ly/1jb6xVS
iTunes: http://apple.co/1MrGlku
Kobo: http://bit.ly/1Sl0N8f

Giveaway!

Julie is generously giving one e-book copy of "Kings of Renown: Betrayal" to one of my blog subscribers! Just fill out the Giveaway Tools form below to enter. (If it doesn't show up in the email, click here http://www.annaweaverbooks.com/giveaways to enter from the website.) Giveaway ends 2/23. Thanks for participating and God bless!

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