Harry S. Truman & Romance by Gail Kittleson | Guest Post

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 February, the month of U.S. Presidents and romance. I decided to mix the two, and fell in love with Harry. S. Truman’s ungainly attempts to express his heartfelt devotion for his one-and-only, Bess. He fell for her, he declared, at six, when they attended Sunday School together.

His feelings only strengthened over the years, even when Bess rejected his first proposal in 1911. His forthright letter stating his adoration and desire to marry Bess included his belief that she might say no, and created a three-week crisis. Bess rejected him then, but Harry took heart. His next letter described his take on this turn of events—at least she hadn’t laughed at him, the worst possible fate for a young man in love’s throes.

His humble tenacity amazes me—he persevered, content with friendship, and Bess complied. Two and a half years later, she admitted that if she ever did marry, she would marry Harry. Not much encouragement to go on, but enough for him.

They finally wed in 1919. Can you imagine such a long courtship?

All this talk of courtship brings me to a dear friend I’ve gotten to know over the past few years. Readers meet Dottie, the heroine of my debut novel, in 1946, during President Truman’s stay in the White House.

She and Bess have a few traits in common. They both know their minds. They’re strong, and don’t allow emotions or romantic notions rule. Having lost her son in WWII and with her daughter experiencing a difficult pregnancy, life is pretty serious for Dottie.

The last thing she expects, or thinks she needs, is courtship. But who can tell how the tides turn? We women control what we can of our lives, yet sometimes have no idea what lurks right around the corner.

For Bess Truman, residency in the White House waited. For Dottie? Well, you’ll have to read her story to find out.

You definitely won’t rue the time you spend reading Harry and Bess Truman’s courtship story, either—I could hardly stop. Rarely has a young man suffered such consistent rejection, yet waited so long for love to blossom.

Read the full story here: http://www.archives.gov/publications/prologue/2007/winter/proposal.html

If you have a favorite American President or a charming courtship story, please share with us.

Gail Kittleson taught college expository writing and now facilitates writing workshops and women’s retreats. She and her husband enjoy family in northern Iowa, and the Arizona mountains in winter.

WhiteFire Publishing released Gail’s memoir, Catching Up With Daylight in 2013, and her debut women’s historical fiction, In This Together (Wild Rose Press/Vintage Imprint) released in 2015. She also contributed to the Little Cab Press 2015 Christmas Anthology.

A World War II series is on the way!

Please feel free to contact Gail—meeting new reading friends is the meringue on her pie, as Dottie would say.

Website: http://www.gailkittleson.com/

In This Together
(purchase)

After losing her only son to World War II and her husband soon after, Dottie Kyle takes a job at a local small-town Iowa boarding house. Her daughter Cora moved to California straight out of high school to work for the war effort, married a sailor and settled down in the Golden State—another loss.

Dottie cooks and cleans, volunteers at her church, and tends her garden. But she hungers to meet her two precious grandbabies on the coast. When troubles arise in Cora’s third pregnancy, Dottie longs to help, but old fears prohibit that arduous, cross-country train journey.

At the boarding house, complications arise that force Dottie to speak up for what’s right, and as her confidence grows, so does the unexpected interest of the widower next door. Dottie has no idea second chances wait right around the corner.

Amanda G. Stevens, Melanie Dickerson & Terri Reed | New Novel News

Far and Near
by Amanda G. Stevens

February 15, 2016
David C. Cook
Purchase: Far and Near

Marcus, Lee, Austin, and Violet are starting over. Texas is supposed to be their sanctuary. But the Constabulary isn't ready to relinquish their worst offenders, legal jurisdiction or not. They've sent agents in undercover, and Marcus is the assigned target of one who has personal reasons to bring him back dead or alive.
Marcus and Lee are ready to be whole again, to secure a home here—together. But wholeness and home might not mean what they thought. Stopping the Constabulary hunters will require more than Marcus knows how to give, and God is about to use him again in a way he doesn't expect.

Enemies, emotions, the past, the future—everything must be faced in the quest for a true haven.

Get to know Amanda...

What prank would you want to play on your main character?
I’ve never thought about this before, but it would be great fun to throw a surprise birthday party for Marcus. Violet agrees with me; now I’m picturing her setting this up! She invites all their friends to the church, decorates folding tables in the gym with “manly” centerpieces, and has a sundae bar set up in one corner. To get Marcus there, they tell him someone needs help with a project at church. (Marcus is always willing to help with a project.) When he discovers the party, he asks what this is for. Someone reminds him his birthday is this week, and he gives a slowly growing smile and says, “Oh.” And then the party’s on.

Who is your favorite secondary character in the Haven Seekers series?
This is impossible; they’re all mine, even those who are unsympathetic most of the time. But … okay, I do love Heath. We meet him in Take and Give (Book 3). I love the friendship between him and Marcus; it’s still in its early stages at the end of the series, but (I hope) it’s clear it will keep growing for the rest of their lives. Heath is intellectual without snobbery, honest without rudeness, dedicated to the Word of God and his church and his wife and pecan pie. He’s also sometimes so far into his own head that he forgets little details like where he put his phone.

If you were a superhero, what would be your super power?
If I could choose, I would want the power of teleportation. I have many friends who live states away from me, who I only get to see once or twice a year. If I could teleport, I could see them anytime I wanted, and I’d never have to buy a plane ticket again.

A Spy's Devotion
by Melanie Dickerson

February 9, 2016
Waterfall Press
Purchase: A Spy's Devotion

In England’s Regency era, manners and elegance reign in public life—but behind closed doors treason and deception thrive. Nicholas Langdon has suffered a battlefield injury and returns home to heal—and to fulfill a dying soldier’s last wish by delivering his coded diary.

At the home of the Wilherns, Langdon attends a ball where he meets their beautiful and intelligent ward, Julia Grey. Determined to maintain propriety, he keeps his distance—until the diary is stolen and all clues lead to Julia’s guardian. As Langdon traces an evil plot that could be the nation’s undoing. And when Julia realizes that England—and the man she is falling in love with—need her help, she finds herself caught in the fray.

Get to know Melanie...

If your book became a movie, who would you cast for your main characters?
Armie Hammer is always going to be my answer to this question. And I’m not sure about my heroine. Someone pretty and very feminine, yet strong-willed.

Favorite season?
Spring!

What actor/actress would play you if your life was a movie? Someone really awkward.

What are the names of your pets? If you don't have any, what would you name your pets? Cecily and Ellie. They are our guinea pigs.

What’s your favorite book? 
Pride and Prejudice

Ransom
by Terri Reed

February 9, 2016
Love Inspired Suspense
Purchase: Ransom

"WE HAVE YOUR SISTER."

Liz Cantrell is terrified when she receives a call from a man holding her newlywed sister captive—and she's convinced her sketchy brother-in-law's involved. Willing to pay any price for her sister's freedom, Liz flies to Niagara Falls with the ransom: an uncut diamond necklace worth millions. But the moment she lands, a handsome, world-weary

Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent takes her into custody. Blake Fallon's determined to catch a ruthless diamond smuggler—and the pretty antiques dealer trying to save her sister could be just the break his case needs. But as they team up to rescue Liz's sister and trap the criminal mastermind, a desperate standoff will threaten everything they hold precious—including their lives.

Get to know Terri...

If you were a superhero, what would be your super power? 
 I’d want to be able to heal people.

If your main characters were animals, what would they be?
Liz, the heroine, would be a beautiful Huskie and the hero, Blake, would be a Grey Wolf.

Name one song/artist you're embarrassed you like. 
Story of My Life by One Direction.

*Leave a comment to enter to win one of these amazing books! Specify which book you'd like (if you have a preference). Amanda is offering winner's choice of book!

If I Run by Terri Blackstock | Re:View

A gripping, thrill-inducing read that will captivate you with brilliant writing and twist upon twist.

Let's face it. You will likely lose sleep over this book. I know that I did. But it was actually a very fast read--one that I greatly enjoyed.

The most noticeable thing initially was the fact that Terri wrote in first person, present tense--with two points of view! Personally, I love this. Not every book should be written like this, but I think she made a fantastic choice. The present tense creates a sense of action and the first person perspective allows for more blow-by-blow action. I feel like Terri did a good job of keeping Casey and Dylan separate as characters on the page. The risk you run with two points of view in first person is that they start to sound the same (um, Allegiant anyone?), but I didn't get that feeling at all.

As for the plot, I liked it. It made me think of Safe Haven (at least the movie) but with its own twists. One of the only hesitations I had was a subplot that kicks in toward the 2/3rds mark (eh, maybe a little less). I won't say what it is to avoid spoilers, but it seemed a little too convenient for me - like something was needed to keep the action going and so "it" appeared. I didn't like how "unattached" to Casey (sort of) and Dylan it really was, though it did a great job of creating interest and keeping up the suspense. Yes, I realize all of that is vague...

@createexploreread

Casey and Dylan were intriguing characters. I feel like--which is usually the case for the first book in a series--we're only getting the top layer of them though. I mean, things are revealed and motivations run deep, but there's so much more I want to know. Along these lines, there really isn't a romantic element...at least not in the traditional sense. I have a feeling it's coming, and I'll be interested to see how Terri accomplishes it, but I honestly didn't miss it. I know, after this post that comment seems strange, but trust me, there is so much going on you won't miss it.

My end thoughts? A definite recommend from me. I already know it's going on my top books of 2016. Yes, it's an easy read. Yes, it may have been a little convenient in parts. And yes, it may be shorter than it could have been. But, in reality, I really enjoyed it and found myself literally talking out loud to the book and gripping the pages because I didn't know what was going to happen. That, in my book (um, pun intended?) equals a great read!

If you love suspense, mystery, intrigue, and just a good story--get this book.

Rating: 4.5*
Purchase: If I Run

Book Description
(from Terri)

Casey knows the truth. But it won’t set her free.

Casey Cox’s DNA is all over the crime scene. There’s no use talking to police; they have failed her abysmally before. She has to flee before she’s arrested . . . or worse. The truth doesn’t matter anymore.

But what is the truth? That’s the question haunting Dylan Roberts, the war-weary veteran hired to find Casey. PTSD has marked him damaged goods, but bringing Casey back can redeem him. Though the crime scene seems to tell the whole story, details of the murder aren’t adding up. Casey Cox doesn’t fit the profile of a killer. But are Dylan’s skewed perceptions keeping him from being objective? If she isn’t guilty, why did she run?

Unraveling her past and the evidence that condemns her will take more time than he has, but as Dylan’s damaged soul intersects with hers, he is faced with two choices. The girl who occupies his every thought is a psychopathic killer . . . or a selfless hero. And the truth could be the most deadly weapon yet.

Also, check out this awesome video from Terri as she explains the thoughts behind creating If I Run.

Don't forget to enter! Click HERE.

And Tweet this: 

Casey doesn't fit the profile of a killer-but she's accused of murder. Don't miss @TerriBlackstock's newest book! http://bit.ly/1Qgw505

_______________
I received a free copy of this book for review purposes, but was under no obligation to read the book or post a review. I do so under my own motivation and the opinions I have expressed in this review are honest and entirely my own.

Honest Thoughts: Happy Endings

We talked a little bit about this in last weeks post about fictional romance, but I felt it deserved its very own, honest post.

Let's get this out in the open just to be safe:

I LOVE HAPPY ENDINGS.

Whew. There, I've said it. I confess. No, I'm not strong enough to endure a sad ending. No, I don't want to look for the "slightly hopeful tidbit" that "really creative" author put there in that last sentence. No, I don't want to feel like I've been run over by a truck and, despite what everyone says, will recover eventually. I don't like sad endings. I. Just. Don't.

Okay, before I rant any more, I will say that I do however, understand sad things happening in a book. I guess, if we're being specific here, a case could be made that in many instances of "sad endings" there were "happy things" to redeem the book, but to me it's usually not enough. I guess we could debate on a case by case basis if needed.

The Why

My desire for all things to work out may stem from my motivation to read. Why I read what I read is a direct result of what I want to feel after I read. (tweet this) I want to be taken on a journey. To feel the adventure. To agonize over the path that leads to the end. BUT, I want to be left satisfied. I guess, for most books that I've read or stories that I've heard told (or seen in movies) satisfaction is gained by happiness.

Hum, that could be analyzed if we dove more deeply into what happiness really is and all that, but let me mention the second reason why I read fiction (I'm add "fiction" to this so it's more specific). I also read to escape. Not as a way to ignore my own personal life, but as a way to jump off the ledge of reality and plummet headfirst into a world that's not my own.

It doesn't have to be a fantasy for me to get lost. I will find myself in another world that's very similar to our own, but in this world there's one particular thing that makes it magic: It's not our world. It's a world where love can over come obstacles. Where killers can be found and stopped. Where good can overcome evil. Where we get to see into the minds of characters.

In this world, I don't think it's too much to ask for a happy ending.

The How 

I'm not going to say that everyone's happy endings need to look the same. In fact, that wouldn't necessarily make it a "happy ending" just an ending. I think the beauty of real happy endings come from the authors mind. It begins with their characters and the issues they must face, overcome, and conquer. Then it transfers onto the page by the adventures and misadventures their characters journey through. It lands when the resolution shows just how it all works out.

The tricky thing about this, in my opinion, is for authors to come up with a truly great ending that packs a punch (no matter your genre) while surprising the reader. We don't want the typical, easy answer. We want something vibrant, creative, and unexpected (if I can speak for readers as a whole).

Let's face it. Anyone can say "they lived happily ever after" but if you don't show us how they got there, it's not worth it. (tweet this) We need to see them working for that happy ending. It needs to be like a juicy stake we get to after a month of eating salad (this metaphor breaks down if you're a vegetarian...). A truly happy ending comes after a lot of pain--just like most good things in this life, right? (tweet this)

So please, authors, remember the power of a happy ending. Your readers will grow based on what your characters discover and that will, in turn, shape more than just your story.

Your turn for honest thoughts: Do you like a happy ending? Why? Is it a requirement? What are some of your favorite books with happy endings?

Debra E. Marvin {Writer Wednesday}

A little bit about Debra...

Debra E. Marvin tries not to run too far from real life but the imagination born out of being an only child has a powerful draw. Besides, the voices in her head tend to agree with all the sensible things she says. She’d like to live just a wee bit closer to her grandchildren, but is thankful that God is in control, that He chooses to bless us despite ourselves and that He has a sense of humor.
Other than writing light-hearted romances and gritty gothics, she has pretty normal obsessions: fabric, peanut butter, vacations, British dramas and whatever mystery series she’s currently reading. (Visit me at debraemarvin.com, the Inkwell Inspirations Blog, @debraemarvin on twitter and Debra E Marvin on Facebook and Pinterest, but not my house because I usually have dirty dishes.)


Connect with Debra...

Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B018QCI2AS
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/Debra-E-Marvin-433266640199533
Twitter: https://twitter.com/DebraEMarvin
Website and personal blog: http://debraemarvin.com/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/debraemarvin/
Group Blog- Inkwell Inspirations: http://www.inkwellinspirations.com/
Purchase: Austen in Austin 


Get to know Debra E. Marvin

You and Writing
 
 Tell us a little bit about yourself and writing... 

How did you start writing? 
Back when my kids were in high school, I took a creative writing course at a local university (Adult Ed.), and entered a short story contest for a local literary magazine. I won. What? So, I took another creative writing course, this time run by a romance author at a local writers’ center. There I learned about writers groups like RWA, and eventually, I became a contest coordinator, putting a lot of time into learning “the craft”. But my heart wasn’t in 100% romance—I longed for mystery or a meaty historical plot, and I preferred to keep the bedroom stuff behind closed doors. I prayed about my writing and carried on. Eventually, I put writing aside while pursuing a degree and working full time. I was one of those darned adult learners! But the urge to write never left, and I found out about ACFW, and ‘writing’ blogs. The biggest boost to my writing was becoming part of my group blog, Inkwell Inspirations.

Emilie here: I think it's so great that you were (and I assume are) committed to learning. I know that has played into your writing now and will continue to! And hey--I know I'm glad you joined ACFW because that meant I got to meet you there! ;-)

Your Writing

Tell us a little bit about your book...

Like many writers, I have a box full of old manuscripts, workshop notes and gems I printed off the internet, and research. About four or five years ago, my Inkwell sisters and I discussed a novella anthology. Austen? Western? We combined the two! Ahh, but how might it find a home, given the whims of the publishing world? In 2015, I’d taken a leave of absence from writing to enjoy life like a normal person (as in not like a compulsive writer). It was great! Of course, that’s when IT happened. Austen in Austin found a home!

I’d chosen Northanger Abbey as my ‘plot/character’ theme, and for those of you who know the book, Catherine Moreland is a bit of a silly girl. Austen wrote Northanger Abbey as a parody of gothic literature (the ultimate too stupid to live heroines of the time). Now, don’t get me wrong, I love romantic suspense and gothics. (I have a series waiting for day light). But…how to make a Catherine Moreland/gothic tale fit for today’s audience? It was a bit of a struggle until my heroine Kathryn Morton came to life. She’s a complete bookworm and wallflower who never gave herself credit, and has been overprotected all her life. To make it work, I had to have some quirky fun with her. For anyone who’s felt like a geek around a cute guy (cue the hunky cowboy!), I think you’ll “get this”. With excellent critiques and begrudging rewrites, I now adore Kathryn and Harmon’s story!

The best part of this ‘publishing story’ is the time the Inkies spent brainstorming and working together to bring overlapping characters in one main setting together over two decades of storylines and Austin history. Susie Dietze and I loved this effort so much, we wore Regency dresses to the costume dinner at conference. Susie won the Genesis for “One Word From You”, her Austen novella, and we also went to see Austenland at the theater in Indianapolis with our Inky sisters Suzie Johnson and Barb Early.

Emilie here: Ok, readers, here's a fun bit of background info. I met Susie at the first ACFW Conference I went to. We actually met up on the plane ride there (talk about awesome "coincidence") and then I met Deb through Susie!

Writing

Let's talk about your writing life...

Advice for aspiring authors:
We’re all told to find someone who really believes in your writing, but it’s just as important to find someone else who’s not afraid to cover your manuscript with red ink. Take the hard lessons and battle onward. I’d lost the balance between life outside of writing and the immense effort it takes to eek a story out of every stolen moment. I’d lost the joy of writing. (We got a legal separation—writing and I.) It’s important, it takes a lot of focus, but it’s not more important than family and giving yourself some time to unwind. Finding the balance is critical, and it’s just as important a lesson as a sword-wielding critique partner.

It’s a truth universally acknowledged: anyone can write a book and get it published these days. A dream come true, right? Not really. Because 1) storytelling 2) tenacity. These will always matter most. A ‘badly’ written novel can do well if the story captivates the reader, but no book will ever be published if you don’t finish it. (Unless you’re Jane Austen?) (tweet this)

Are you a Panster or Plotter? What does your writing process look like?
No pantsing here. I’m an obsessive plotter, but it becomes signposts along the way as my characters take over the story. That’s key. For me, plotting means I can sit down and know what ‘should’ happen in a scene and write a really crummy first draft of it. From there, I see what I need to tweak, but plotting reduces pointless and episodic bunny trails. Then I sprinkle in secrets, emotions, doubts. Details to the setting. Subtext to the plot. Before I worry about prettying up the prose, this is the time I get a second opinion. Does the story make sense? Are the characters interesting? That second draft is the hardest part. I have to face really ugly stuff and start shaping it. My favorite part come later, when I add the real depth of emotion and setting details.

My first draft is generally 75% dialogue and 25%...‘He walks to the door. She thinks…something…and then she follows him. I call it the Dick and Jane method of writing.

Whatever works for you, do it. Just keep at it and know it’s going to stink and be painful and exhilarating and fun. And then one day you get to visit Emilie’s blog and talk about a new release!

Emilie here: Great advice here! I know the difficulties of finding balance for the writing life. I love your approach though! Hey, every novel starts somewhere, right? It's where it ends that's important. And yes - I'd love to have more guests!!!

You

So, Emilie asks: flowers, or chocolate, or books?
Well, for me the best gift is time with family and friends, or Amazon gift certificates (then I can justify buying DVDs). And I love promises of vacations! I’m so not a Valentine’s Day girl. But nowadays a handmade card from a grandchild is the Best. Thing. Ever.

What are you currently reading?
Austen in Austin Vol 2 novellas! I’ll switch over to non-fiction research for two novellas I’m working on for Forget Me Not publishing. And I’ve just started judging in a great contest I’ve been involved with since finaling in it years ago.

Thanks so much for hosting me, Emilie. You’re a real sweetheart and a favorite with the Inkwell girls since we met you in Indianapolis. I wish you the best with your writing career, photography and that personal life I get glimpses of on Facebook!

Emilie here: Thank you for being my guest Deb! And you are too sweet (*insert grinning face here*). I am so excited for you ladies and the introduction of Austen in Austin to the world! Readers, if you don't win it - GO BUY IT! :D

Comment below about your favorite Jane Austen novel or let us know what you're reading right now.

::WINNER::

I had Laura VanArendonk Baugh on the blog last week and she offered up two books! Our winner is:

Rebecca Bell

Congrats Rebecca :)

Girl Meets Change by Kristen Strong | RE:VIEW

Sweet, personal, and honest.

I saw the cover of this book first (yes, I've always got my eye toward design) and I just loved what it represented. The seasons, change, new life. All of it! Then I got around to reading the title and thought this was something I should read.

Right off the bat I connected with what Kristen was saying--how she pinpointed what I'm sure a lot of women feel. Change is hard. You may be one of those women who loves change (as I'd say I do in some cases) but Kirsten pointed out that change for change's sake isn't really good change. It's all in how we view and meet the change that matters.

From a devotional standpoint I did enjoy the book, though it took me much too long to finish it. I think this was somewhat due to busyness, other reading/work I had, and some what do to lack of extreme connection. For me, a devotional book really needs to speak to a need that I have. While I feel like there is a lot of change in my life now and coming in the future, I didn't feel as gripped (if I can use that word) to Girl Meets Change. Not for lack of wanting though.

I found Kirsten's writing to be strong and to the point--both things I love! And I think she did a good job of seeking out stories to add here and there along with her own personal anecdotes. I did enjoy that she used examples of Biblical characters, but I found that they were "typical" characters. Esther, Jacob, Abraham...Now there is nothing wrong with these examples, and for those who haven't grown up in the church or don't know the Bible well, these may have pointed out "light bulb" ideas, but I found that I wasn't challenged to see their stories in a new light.

To me, there wasn't a moment of awakening where I realized something new about myself - which is often why I read devotional books (aside from my own Bible reading, of course). Don't get me wrong, I did my fair share of highlighting and Kristen had some amazing gems that I took to heart. But I just didn't connect in a "wow, this book changed me" type of way (ironically). And that's okay. Not all books will.

I would still be confident in recommending this to women who know they have a difficult time with change or those who are facing an upcoming change that could be difficult, scary, exciting, or crazy-new. Kirsten's attention to scripture and her constant encouragement will mean a lot.

Rating: 4*
Purchase: Girl Meets Change

Book Description
(from Kristen's website)

Whether chosen or unexpected, all change brings stress. Kristen Strong knows about change--especially the kind you didn't choose. Over the years, she's fought hard to learn an important truth: change is not something to be feared but something to be received as a blessing from God who works through it, not in spite of it.

In this hope-filled book, Kristen invites you to see all the ways you are loved and cared for in the midst of change. She walks alongside you as a friend, gently ushering you toward a new view of change, one that meets you at the crossroads of your own sense of anxiety and God's sense of purpose. With practical advice for coping in every part of life, she draws from her own experiences, the stories of others, and stories from Scripture to help you find contentment, purpose, and renewed strength.

_______________

I received a free copy of this book for review purposes, but was under no obligation to read the book or post a review. I do so under my own motivation and the opinions I have expressed in this review are honest and entirely my own.

Nicole Deese, Crystal L. Barnes, and Angela Strong | New Novel News

A Season to Love 
by Nicole Deese

February 2, 2016
Waterfall Press, Amazon Publishing
Purchase: A Season to Love

At this point in her life, bravery is not a trait Willa Hart would readily claim. She believes her seven-year-old daughter, Savannah, who never knew her father and successfully tackled chemotherapy, is truly the courageous one. Yet after Willa has a fateful encounter with handsome young doctor Patrick McCade, her outlook—and her view of herself—begins to change.

Patrick, a thrill-seeking world traveler and temporary resident of Lenox, Oregon, sets out to show Willa the value of adventure, even within her tiny town. But just when their friendship shows signs of turning into something more, Patrick’s life as a traveling doctor calls him back. Will his last days in town signal the end of their journey, or will Patrick and Willa find the courage to transform a single season into a lifetime?

Get to know Nicole...

What are the names of your pets?
We have a new little golden doodle puppy who is stinkin' adorable. His name is Warner, named after one of my favorite fictional heroes. (From the YA series Shatter Me.)

If you were stranded on an island which three things couldn't you live without?
I'll list them in order of importance:
1. My husband (kinda like that guy)
2. A charged kindle (to remain charged because this is a magical island, right?)
3. Music (preferably from my Spotify channel)

Favorite place you've ever traveled?
When I was twenty-one I joined a YWAM (Youth With A Mission) base in Queensland, Australia. I lived there for six months and had the opportunity to travel to Fiji, Vanuatu, and New Zealand. And though I consider Australia my heart country, New Zealand is definitely the most beautiful place I've ever seen. I can't wait to go back!

*Check out Nicole's giveaway on her website (it ends February 9th).

Love, Stock, & Barrel
by Crystal L. Barnes

February 4, 2016
Amazon Publishing
Purchase: Love, Stock, & Barrel

Hiding from a rat of a fiancé, Dinah Lexington makes tracks for Texas and who she hopes is her late mother’s relative. She’s seeking answers but finds more than she bargains for when she gets caught in a shotgun wedding—with the rifle pointed at her.

Russell Cahill can’t believe his father is demanding he marry the feisty redhead. The sharpshooting female would only add to his troubles, but how does one argue with a gun and an attraction he's fought to ignore?
Sparks fly. Secrets surface. Loss threatens.
Will a dream for love shatter forever, or will the pair find a marriage worth lock, stock, and barrel?


Get to know Crystal...

What actor/actress would play you if your life was a movie?
Either Poppy Montgomery or Scarlett Johansson. (I’d pick Maureen O’Hara, but there’s a bit of an age discrepancy, not to mention she died last year. :D )

What’s your favorite book?
If we’re talking fiction, The Princess by Lori Wick

If your main characters were animals, what would they be?
Dinah would be a wild cat. Russell…hmm…a black lab.

Finding Love in Sun Valley Idaho

by Angela Ruth Strong

February 1, 2016

Amazon Publishing

* Previously released as Love Finds You in Sun Valley in 2010 by Summerside Press

Purchase: Finding Love in Sun Valley Idaho

 
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?



Get to know Angela...

If your book became a movie, who would you cast as the main characters?I love this question because my book IS being considered for production as a movie. (http://www.beliefnet.com/columnists/faithmediaandculture/2012/07/mpi-to-bring-popular-love-finds-you-book-series-to-television.html)

My main character, Emily Van Arsdale, is a stunt woman who ends up acting and becomes famous for playing the role of Wonder Woman. As Wonder Woman is coming out soon, I would be tickled pink to have the same actress, Gal Gadot, play the part of Emily. As for Tracen Lake, the rafting guide, I wrote him with Josh Duhamel in mind.

Who is your favorite secondary character?
Tracen grew up with four brothers, and I've decided to write his little brothers' romances as part of a new series titled Resort to Love. Currently I'm working on Finding Love in Big Sky, Montana, which is about Josh, but the youngest brother Sam keeps trying to steal the show. His romance is next--Finding Love in Park City, Utah--and with as much personality as Sam has, it's going to be a doozy. Sam returned from serving in the Army overseas just in time to give his brothers unwanted relationship advice, which is funny because he's a free spirit who refuses to settle down. But don't worry. After fighting forest fires over the summer and helping out Josh as a ranch hand, I'm pretty sure he'll meet his match in the reporter who keeps trying to get past him to interview his sister-in-law Emily at the Sundance Film Festival.

Favorite place you've traveled?
Traveling is one of my favorite parts of writing. Either I'm inspired by a place I visit and I want to set a story there, or I research a setting for my story and I want to travel there. Last year the most fascinating place I visited was a mission in inner city San Francisco started by Roger Huang. You can read about it in the book Chasing God. Life changing. I had a whole story plotted when I left, but I've had to put it on hold for a couple other projects. In a week I'm heading to the Sundance Film Festival to research for Sam's story. Friend me on facebook to find out if I run into anyone famous!

::WINNER::

I had Dani Pettrey on the blog last week and she offered up a copy of her new release, Cold Shot, as a giveaway! We've got one lucky winner....

Just Commonly

Congrats :)

I too am looking forward to reading this - I just go my review copy so be on the look out for my review in a few weeks!