Texas K-9 Unit Series Review and Giveaway

ABOUT TEXAS K-9 UNIT SERIES
Texas K-9 Unit Series Books 1-3: Tracking Justice\Detection Mission\Guard Duty [Kindle Edition]

Love Inspired Suspense authors Shirlee McCoy, Margaret Daley and Sharon Dunn will get your pulse racing with tales of Texas cops and their loyal K-9 dogs tracking down a crime ring. Enjoy three action-packed Texas K-9 Unit romantic suspense novels in one box set!

When a boy goes missing from his bedroom, a police detective must assure a desperate single mother that he and his trusty bloodhound will find her son.

A woman with amnesia has to rely on an officer and his border collie to stay alive when she can't remember who tried to kill her.

An FBI agent is called in to protect a single mother when the rookie K-9 officer witnesses a murder and becomes the killer's target.

This box set includes:
TRACKING JUSTICE BY SHIRLEE MCCOY
DETECTION MISSION BY MARGARET DALEY
GUARD DUTY BY SHARON DUNN

File Size: 2064 KB
Print Length: 532 pages
Publisher: Love Inspired Suspense (February 16, 2015)
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services, Inc.
Language: English
ASIN: B00OOM1L08
Text-to-Speech: Enabled

ABOUT THE AUTHORS
Shirlee McCoy has always loved making up stories. As a child she daydreamed elaborate tales in which she was the heroine — gutsy, strong and invincible. Though she soon grew out of her superhero fantasies, her love for storytelling never diminished.

Shirlee knew early that she wanted to write inspirational fiction and began writing her first novel when she was a teenager. Still, it wasn't until her third son was born that she truly began pursuing her dream of being published. Three years later she sold her first book.

Now a busy mother of four, Shirlee is a homeschool mom by day and an inspirational author by night. She and her husband and children live in Maryland and share their home with a dog and a guinea pig.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Margaret has been writing for over 35 years. She started writing in the late 1970s
When she went away to college, she met her husband, Mike, to whom she has been married for over 40 years. He is her support and her best friend. She has always felt she was the luckiest woman the day she bumped into him on campus.
Besides teaching and writing, she is also a mother of one. Her son, Shaun.
When she isn't working, she loves to read, travel, and go to lunch and a movie with a friend.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Sharon Dunn
In addition to her new Bargain Hunters mysteries Sharon is the author of the Ruby Taylor mysteries. Book Two in the series, Sassy Cinderella and the Valiant Vigilante won the Book of the Year from American Christian Fiction writers. Her books which have been called humorous whodunits have received praise for their honest portrayal of the Christian journey. Sharon lives with 3 kids, 3 cats, and her hubby of 20 years.



MY REVIEW
  The Texas K-9 Unit series is just fantastic and full of life, adventure and love.  I’m just going to comment on the first book in this series Tracking Justice by Shirlee McCoy, but the other two are just as fantastic as the first one.
  Tracking Justice starts right off with action when a woman finds her son missing from his bed and she won’t let the trackers go alone without her. She wants to help look for her son and be there for him.
  In Tracking Justice the little boy, Brady sees a crime taking place next door so the criminals kidnap him to keep him quiet. He gives the police clues, but doesn’t feel safe unless  Austin and his dog Justice [the ones who found him] are there.
  Brady’s mom, Eva works hard to give Brady a safe, secure place to live and being a single parent makes it much harder.
   The K-9 units are very dedicated and very serious about there jobs. They are always looking for ways to make things better in their units and for the victims.
  I really love these books and know you will also. Buy the 3 book set, because one book leads into the other and they are priceless. Highly recommended.


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“Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one of the products  mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

One book giveaway
  we have the latest book by Shirlee McCoy (author of Book1 in the series), “Protection Detail.” It releases March 3rd
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Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject  to eligibility verification.”

Wind in the Wires by Janet Chester Bly REVIEW AND GIVEAWAY

ABOUT WIND IN THE WIRES
A cowgirl searches for love and family. An old man seeks justice. A journey they take together exposes a tale of lies and betrayal. Will the truth be too hard for either to bear?
It’s 1991. Reba Cahill loves ranching with Grandma Pearl in north central Idaho. But there’s a lot of work and only two of them. Can she find a man worthy of her attentions and strong enough to help her run the ranch? She finds few prospects in the small town of Road’s End. But Reba is also missing something else: her mother. Deserted by her at three-years-old and never knowing her dad, she feels a sense of longing and loss. And bitterness. When elderly, quirky Road’s End citizen Maidie Fortress dies, Uncle Seth presents Reba Cahill with an expensive piece of jewelry that turns Reba’s world upside down. She is thrust into a journey with Seth that exposes dark family secrets and two cold case murders. The evidence leads her down unexpected paths and towards unsuspected admirers. Will the truth also ruin all hope for romance?

Series: Trails of Reba Cahill
Paperback: 322 pages
Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform; 1 edition (November 17, 2014)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1503200116
ISBN-13: 978-1503200111
Product Dimensions: 6 x 0.7 x 9 inches
Shipping Weight: 1 pounds

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Janet Chester Bly is the widow of award-winning western author Stephen Bly. She has authored and co-authored 31 fiction and nonfiction books of her own. She and her three sons finished Stephen’s last novel for him, Stuart Brannon’s Final Shot, a Selah Award Finalist. The family’s story is told on her website blog: http://www.blybooks.com/. Wind in the Wires is her first solo adult novel. She lives on top a mountain at 4,200 ft elevation in north-central Idaho.





MY REVIEW
  Wind in the Wires by Janet Chester Bly is the first book in the A Trails of Reba Cahill Novel series. What a wonderful start to a series. I came to love the characters and setting very much. The ending almost took my breath away. How exciting and captivating this book is.
  I really came to love the older man Seth in this book. He is full of much knowledge and secrets, but his love of God is the best.
  In the Wind in the Wires you learn things aren’t always as they seem. Sometimes people do things for you and you don’t understand why and maybe even disagree with them.
  The part that really captivated my attention in this book is the wonderful road trip and why Seth planned it.
  Every part of this book will keep you guessing and keep you reading until you’re at the end. I highly recommend Wind in the Wires for all lovers of the West, adventure and romance. Janet Chester Bly is an excellent author.

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Thank you to the  Author/Publicist  for providing this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255



GIVEAWAY WIND IN THE WIRES BY JANET CHESTER BLY

The author has kindly offered to giveaway one of her books. Please pass this giveaway along to your friends and family.
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Audrey Bunny by Angie Smith REVIEW & GIVEAWAY

ABOUT AUDREY BUNNY 
From best-selling women’s author Angie Smith (I Will Carry You, Mended) comes this sweet children’s book about a stuffed animal named Audrey Bunny who fears her imperfections make her unworthy of a little girl’s love. She'll learn the truth soon enough, and young readers will learn that everyone is special and wonderfully made by God.

ISBN: 9781433680458

Trim Size: 10.00 x 8.00 x 0.10 in

Page Count: 32

Weight: 1.03lb

Binding: Hardcover w/Dust Jacket

Status: Active

Publication Date: October 2013

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Angie Smith is the wife of Todd Smith (lead singer of Dove Award winning group Selah), author of I Will Carry You, What Women Fear, and Mended. She is one of the most popular speakers and blog writers in the country. She holds a Master’s degree in Developmental Psychology from Vanderbilt University and lives with her husband and daughters in Nashville, TN. Check out Angie's blog at AngieSmithonline.com. Angie loves receiving letters from readers like you. Please feel free to email her at angelac519@gmail.com. Though she is unable to respond to every email, she reads them all. Many thanks for reaching out!

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR 
Breezy Brookshire grew up in Indiana where she enjoyed, among many things, nature walks, reading, and drawing characters from her imagination. Being home educated allowed her the time to cultivate her interest in illustration. She was mostly self-taught in drawing. Breezy has illustrated for The Girlhood Home Companion, Queen Homeschool, and has recently illustrated Angie Smith's first children's book, Audrey Bunny (B&H Publishing Group, Oct. 2013). She designs paper dolls and embroidery patterns for her family's home businesses, Noble Rose Press and Clementine Pattern Co. respectively.  Breezy is a 22-year-old follower of Jesus Christ, and lives in Indiana with her sister and parents.


MY REVIEW
  Audrey Bunny by Angie Smith with illustrations by Breezy Brookshire is a beautiful, beautiful book. In the story and also illustrations.  The story is so sweet and loving that children and parents alike will just fall in love with it.
  Audrey Bunny had a mark over her heart and thought no one could ever love her. Finally she was chosen by a little girl, but Audrey tried to always hid her mark. The ending is so delightful and touching.
  The illustrations are so precious and colorful that your child will just love to look at the pictures again and again.
 Audrey Bunny will make a wonderful gift for your child/grandchild or a favorite child you know. This book will be long cherished by you and your children. I highly recommend it and just love this book.

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Disclosure of Material Connection: I receive books free I am not
required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed
are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal
Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255

AUDREY BUNNY GIVEAWAY
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Contest is only open in the U.S. and void where prohibited. Chances of winning are based on the number of entries and winner is draw from a non-biased third party- Random.org.  ENTRY DEADLINE NOVEMBER 14, 2013

Laura Frantz author interview and book Giveaway Love's Awakening

Today I’m interviewing Laura Frantz author of Love’s Awakening.  Here is my review of this wonderful book.

TRINITY ROSE Tell us about Love's Awakening the featured book .

LAURA Beloved daughter. Wayward son. Will a future with him cost her all she holds dear?
The book is set in 1822 Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, including early Pittsburgh, and is a story of the Underground Railroad and the entwined lives of three families – the Ballantynes, Turlocks, and Camerons. Lots of twists and turns and romance and some historical fireworks! It continues the story in book one, Love’s Reckoning, with Eden and Silas Ballantyne and focuses on their daughter, Ellie.

TRINITY ROSE Has being published changed your life?

LAURA Yes. I was a stay at home mom for many years after working as a teacher and social worker. My boys, Wyatt and Paul, kept me plenty busy. It’s a joy to work from home now writing books but it also is a challenge as I don’t go to the office so everyone still has access to me Winking smile. Carving out writing time requires a lot of discipline. Thankfully I love it and can’t wait to sit down and do it!

TRINITY ROSE What do you find harder to do come up with a character, get the scenery or the plot?

LAURA I think plot is often the trickiest part. I’ve heard it said that if you have strong, compelling characters you can have a weak plot but watch out if your plot is weak and your characters are, too. I’ve never dug myself a hole yet as far as plot, thankfully, as the Lord always bails me out. I rely on His guidance and leading completely for these stories of mine otherwise I couldn’t do it. Scenery and character development seem to come more naturally to me. Maybe too naturally as I can get wordy!

TRINITY ROSE Which do you enjoy more e books or print books?

LAURA I always prefer a print book but love the ease of e-books. There’s something about seeing a cover and holding a real book that is very comforting and meaningful to me. Love the feel and smell of them, etc.

TRINITY ROSE Thanks for taking the time answer questions for us and for donating a book.

LAURA Thanks so much for hosting me! It’s always  a joy to share a CBA book and meet new readers.



GIVEAWAY OF LOVE’S AWAKENING
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winner is draw from a non-biased third party- Random.org.

ENTRY DEADLINE OCTOBER 21, 2013

Burning Sky by Lori Benton Author interview and book GIVEAWAY

Today I’m interviewing Lori Benton author of Burning Sky. Here is my review of this wonderful book .

TRINITY ROSE Tell us about the featured book.

LORI Burning Sky is a novel about war, though no battles are depicted in its pages. But the Revolutionary War trails its aftermath of loss through the lives of those who survived it. This is a story about such loss—loss of loved ones, of home, of ability, and identity. It’s also a story of healing, of mending brokenness. It’s the story of wounded people learning to trust a loving God, to understand His nature in the midst of tragedy and pain. It’s a story of faith, hope, and love, spanning generations, races, and cultures, set amidst the war-ravaged New York frontier of 1784.

In the pages of Burning Sky you’ll meet Willa Obenchain, captured by Mohawk Indians twelve years previously and renamed Burning Sky. Stripped of both identities, yet haunted by each, she’s come home to Shiloh, New York to find the land and people she once knew irrevocably altered and largely unwelcoming. Willa wants to be left alone to mourn her losses, but God has other plans—plans for healing, for restoration. And He’s placed Scottish botanist Neil MacGregor in her path to begin the process.

TRINITY ROSE Has being published changed your life?

LORI I’ll say! The work load is heavier. Finding time to write is harder. Gone are the days when I wrote a book without distractions like editing the book I already wrote and promoting the one I wrote before that. It’s a juggling act, but one I’m determined to master and, God willing, I'll be given more opportunities to practice!

Another huge change is the readers. It’s been a delight and a blessing to watch readers react to my characters and story for the first time in the twenty+ years I’ve been writing novels. It’s both gratifying and creates in me a sense of intense vulnerability. It's still a little surreal, but in a good way.

TRINITY ROSE What do you find harder to do, come up with a character, get the scenery, or the plot?

LORI Setting detail isn’t hard if I’ve done my research. Making sure there isn’t too much, and that what is there is from a character’s close point of view, not my own (in other words, the description is something that particular character would notice at that particular moment), is the hardest thing about description.

Plot and character are more intertwined in my writing process. Plot often comes about because of character. Conversely, sometimes I create a (minor) character to serve a certain plot need. And plot is often dependent on historical fact. I can’t change history, so I weave my stories through it. Character is also largely influenced by the social mores and intellectual beliefs of the time period. I try not to create characters who are 21st century people in 18th century costume. All of it requires months of research, careful thought, and outlining before the writing even begins. At least that’s the way it works for me!

TRINITY ROSE Which do you enjoy more e books or print books?

LORI I have yet to purchase an ereader. I have a Kindle for PC program, but I don’t enjoy reading from a screen, especially since that’s what I do all day already. I want to turn off the computer and sink into a cushion somewhere with real pages in my hand, when I do find the time to enjoy a novel. As far as research goes, I highlight, make notations, and sticky-note my books to death, so I can find information fast when I need it. If all that was contained on some electronic device, I’d likely forget it was even there, much less be able to access it again quickly. Besides, overflowing bookshelves is one of the happiest sights I know.

TRINITY ROSE Thanks for taking the time answer questions for us and for donating a book.

LORI Thanks for having me on your website! I look forward to signing the book to the winner.



GIVEAWAY BURNING SKY
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ENTRY DEADLINE   OCTOBER 19, 2013

Rufus and Ryan Go To Church by Kathleen Long Bostrom a review and BOOK GIVEAWAY

ABOUT RUFUS AND RYAN GO TO CHURCH

In Rufus and Ryan Go to Church! Ryan explains to his stuffed monkey, Rufus, what is happening as they attend church on Sunday morning. He lets Rufus know when it's time to sing and to pray and to be quiet.
About the series: Rufus and Ryan is a new series of board books for preschoolers, featuring Ryan, an energetic little boy, and his stuffed monkey Rufus. The series focuses on religious and church concepts, as well as character traits and development. The text is presented in young Ryan's voice as he teaches Rufus about the things he is learning himself.

In about 150 age-appropriate words, author Kathleen Bostrom brings a delightfully light touch to the text as she provides an introduction to practices and experiences that many children are exposed to long before they understand why. And children everywhere will relate to the idea of explaining their surroundings to a favorite companion as they go about their daily activities.

Series: Rufus and Ryan
Board book: 20 pages
Publisher: CandyCane Press, an imprint of Ideals Publications; Brdbk edition (September 1, 2013)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0824919033
ISBN-13: 978-0824919030
Product Dimensions: 6.5 x 7.1 inches
Shipping Weight: 11 ounces

WHO is this book for?
- Children ages 2 to 5 and their parents, grandparents
- These faith-based board books make great gifts during any season: Christmas, Easter, baby
- Toddler birthday
- Gift from grandparents
- Gift for your child's Sunday School teacher of children's minister
- Perfect for church nurseries, Sunday school classes, preschools, and church worship settings

ABOUT THE AUTHOR  Kathleen Long Bostrom is an accomplished author who has written numerous children's books, including Sunrise Hill and Mary's Happy Christmas Day. She lives in Wildwood, Illinois, with her husband and three children.

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR 
Rebecca Thornburgh began illustrating children’s books full-time in 1996 and today has almost 100 books to her name. Rebecca’s vibrant watercolors have been showcased in previous Ideals titles, including the new edition of The Story of Christmas. She lives in Philadelphia with her husband and two daughters.

MY REVIEW
  Rufus and Ryan Go to Church by Kathleen Long Bostrom is a sweet, lovely book that your young child or grandchild will love. Also fantastic for a giveaway to your Sunday School children.
  Ryan is a very charming character who loves church and his monkey Rufus. He talks about his favorite parts of church and can’t wait to go each week.
  The board book makes it so easy for your young child to look at the pictures and read and reread as the young usually do. The pictures are so very colorful and full of happy faces. The church and the day are bright and beautiful.
   This is just the book for your young child who loves to look at pictures and read. I highly recommend this book.

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Disclosure of Material Connection: I receive books free as a Book Review Blogger. I am not required to write a positive review. The opinions I express are my own. This is true of any book I review for any publisher or author; I will not review books where a positive review is required and I will always express my own opinions of each book received and read.


BOOK GIVEAWAY
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Chances of winning are based on the number of entries and 
winner is draw from a non-biased third party- Random.org.  

ENTRY DEADLINE  OCTOBER 14, 2013

BOOK GIVEAWAYS

JUST WANTED ALL OF MY FOLLOWERS TO KNOW THAT I WILL BE GIVING AWAY BOOKS AGAIN VERY SOON!

 I HAVE BEEN SO BUSY WITH A NEW JOB AND SO MANY THINGS GOING ON.

HOPEFULLY IN SEPTEMBER I WILL START AGAIN.

THANKS FOR STAYING WITH ME THROUGH THIS.

BLESSINGS TO ALL!

TRINITY ROSE

Book Giveaway and Review of Time and Again by Deborah Heal

ABOUT TIME AND AGAIN

Charlotte of Miles Station

When Abby chose tutoring an "economically disadvantaged adolescent" as her college service project, she didn't realize how difficult her summer would be. Merrideth, her 11-year-old student, has been sullen and depressed ever since her parents' divorce, especially since she was forced to move to the dilapidated old house her mother inherited. When Merrideth's dad sends her a top-of-the-line computer to make up for his absence in her life, she and Abby discover a weird program on it that invites them to "Take a Virtual Tour" of various houses around the world, including, amazingly, Merrideth's own house.
And then they discover the program is more than a simple visual experience. Much more. Abby and Merrideth find they can "time-surf" to any date, including 1858 when the house was new and young Charlotte Miles lived there. By locking onto Charlotte, they can get into her head--know her thoughts and feelings--and experience her world, even when she gets on the train to attend the Lincoln/Douglas Debate.
Watching from a distance as Charlotte faces the challenges in her life, including the hardships of the Civil War, gives Abby and Merrideth new perspective on their own problems. Time and Again is a story told in the past and in the present. A story of self-discovery and faith.

Perfect Paperback: 256 pages
Publisher: Tate Publishing (January 24, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1613466692
ISBN-13: 978-1613466698
Product Dimensions: 8.2 x 5.2 x 0.6 inches
Shipping Weight: 10.4 ounces

ABOUT DEBORAH HEAL

Deborah Heal is a former high school English teacher who loves reading, gardening, and learning about southern Illinois history. She is married and has three grown children, three grandchildren, and two canine buddies named Digger and Scout. Today she lives in the St. Louis Metro East area, but for many years she lived not far from the setting of her first novel, Time and Again. In Unclaimed Legacy, the second in the trilogy, Abby, John, and Merrideth must clear the name of a man wrongly accused of murder--in a 150-year-old case! The author is currently working on book three.

MY REVIEW
  Time and Again Charlotte of Miles Station by Deborah Heal is a fantastic read. It is a great story to read for any age group, but I think young ladies would really enjoy it . It is quite a nice clean story without violence.
  This story has many themes to it. Divorce, neglected children, history, present day, love, family.
  Abby is a young lady who wants to tutor a young girl for a college project she at first wonders if she is cut out to help a girl who has so many problems and attitudes. Merrideth feels lonely since her mother divorced her dad and she doesn’t know why and they also moved very far away to a very small town. So Merrideth quits caring and just eats and watches T.V.
  Abby tries to bring her out of herself and they get into a computer program that carries them back over 100  years to the people who use to live in the house that they live in now. It is really a super fun read that will give everyone the desire to be better and keep looking up. I highly recommend this book.

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Thank you to the  Author/Publicist  for providing this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255

The author will giveaway the book Time and Again to one of my followers.

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Contest is only open in the U.S. and void where prohibited. Chances of winning are based on the number of entries and winner is draw from a non-biased third party- Random.org.  ENTRY DEADLINE November 10, 2012

Author Interview Janet Bly featuring the book Stuart Brannon's Final Shot-BOOK GIVEAWAY

Today’s interview is with Janet Bly featuring  the book Stuart Brannon’s Final Shot written by Stephen Bly with Janet, Russell, Michael and Aaron Bly. I have loved all of the books I’ve read written by Stephen Bly and this one is fantastic. Here is my review link if you would like to see what I thought. http://thelifeandtimesofwanda.blogspot.com/2012/03/stuart-brannons-final-shot-by-stephen.html
Janet and her sons Russell, Michael and Aaron did a incredible job finishing this  book. So on to the interview and giveaway!

Tell us about the featured book Stuart Brannon’s Final Shot.
Book blurb: It's 1905. Two orphans flee Oregon's Tillamook Head. One of them is branded a hero. Dare they tell the truth and risk the wrath of a dangerous man? Meanwhile, a retired Arizona lawman searches for his missing U.S. Marshal friend while he grapples with the game of golf on behalf of a celebrity charity tournament.
Summary: At age 58, legendary lawman Stuart Brannon--now a rancher and widower--had no intention of leaving his beloved Arizona Territory to attend the Lewis and Clark Centennial Exposition in Oregon, nor to participate in a celebrity golf tournament. His life no longer consisted of men to track down, people trying to kill him, gangs preying on the innocent.
Then the telegram came: Stuart, I need you in Portland. Tom Wiseman is missing. I think there's a cover-up. I'll contact you there. T.R.
How could he refuse a request from the President of the United States?
Reviews:
"Stuart Brannon's Final Shot delivers and reminds us what we'll miss most about the beloved author." Jerry B. Jenkins, NYT Bestselling novelist & biographer


"Bly throws his readers into the fray from the first page and never lets up until the final scene." Award-winning author Kathleen Y'Barbo


"A poignant reminder of a by-gone time...I was drawn into the world ...There's so much wisdom in this book...I loved the story. I loved the colorful characters..." Review by Angie Arndt, ACFW Carolinas Coordinator
"...comes alive with vivid details...an intriguing and often comical story of adventure and loyalty, flavored with the unexpected...has all the adventure one would expect from a Western, with enough humor to appeal to non-Western readers." Jennifer Slattery, CWG reviewer


"...unusual experience...I found it a fascinating look into the process." Michael Ehret, CWG Editor-in-Chief


What was the hardest thing about finishing this book that Stephen started?
Of course the obvious one--not having my husband as part of the project. And having so little time (four months) for such a challenge as this. We so wanted to match Steve's story writing ability, so it read like a Stephen Bly novel and portrayed the Stuart Brannon character as he created him to be. We also missed having a 'rest' time for the story to season for a final objective edit before the deadline. We sent the manuscript in such a flurry of last minute changes, we didn't have a settled feeling. Fortunately, we were allowed an additional look before it went to press. And, yes, we did make corrections.


Of your three sons who helped finish this book, do you see any of them becoming an author of other books?
I know they could create a book together with each of their different inputs. Also, either Aaron or Michael could write on their own, given the time and motivation. They have both expressed this desire.

Many writers are also avid readers.  Do you have any favorite authors?  If so, could you name a few?
Oh dear, where do I begin? I truly do read a vast number of fiction and nonfiction authors. And I'm so privileged to call many of them friends too. Right now I'm enjoying the book Heaven by Randy Alcorn. I know where Steve is, but I'm so curious to have more biblical information about what it's like for him there and what he might be doing. Reading about heaven comforts me in my great loss. Also appreciate Randy Alcorn's novels, in which he often tells the story from both the earth viewpoint and heavenly perspective.

If you could only take five books with you on a journey of ten years, which ones would you take?
The Bible. A concordance. A dictionary. A thesaurus. A journal.

What three things are you most thankful for in your life?
My family. My church. My friends.

Which do you enjoy more e books or print books?
Ebooks are fun to order. Print books are the most satisfying to read and mark and I don't have to remember to get them charged.
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Janet Chester Bly has authored and co-authored with Stephen Bly thirty nonfiction and fiction books, including Awakening Your Sense of Wonder, Hope Lives Here, The Heart of a Runaway, The Hidden West Series and The Carson City Chronicles. She lives at 4,000 ft. elev. in Winchester, Idaho. Find out more at http://www.blybooks.com/ or http://www.blybooks.blogspot.com/


Russell Bly is married to Lois, father of Zachary and Miranda (married to Chris Ross), and grandfather of 1-year-old Alayah. He is manager of Deranleau’s department store in Moscow, Idaho.


Michael Bly is married to Michelle and is Director of Business Operations for Inland Cellular in Lewiston, Idaho.


Aaron Bly is married to Rina, father of Keaton and Deckard. He’s Manufacturing Supervisor for Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories in Lewiston, Idaho.


Filled with humor and heart, adventure and romance, Stuart Brannon’s Final Shot is the story of a man who embodied the Code of the West. Christy Award–winning author Stephen Bly (August 17, 1944 – June 9, 2011) wrote 105 books including six Stuart Brannon novels. In Stuart Brannon’s Final Shot, we bid a fond farewell to the character — and to Stephen Bly, his creator.
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One fortunate follower will have the chance to win Stuart Brannon’s Final Shot.
Leave a comment with your name and email address. You will not be entered unless you leave a comment AND your email address.


Here are the ways to get extra entries:
~Be or become a follower  +1
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Contest is only open in the U.S. and void where prohibited. Chances of winning are based on the number of entries and winner is draw from a non-biased third party- Random.org.  ENTRY DEADLINE May 25, 2012

Author Interview-Charlene Ann Baumbich-BOOK GIVEAWAY-Finding Our Way Home

FINDING OUR WAY HOME by Charlene Ann Baumbich is a wonderful book that I know you will love. Here is my review link so you can see what the book is about and what I think of it.  http://thelifeandtimesofwanda.blogspot.com/2012/04/finding-our-way-home-by-charlene-ann.html 


Here is my interview with Charlene and below that a book giveaway for one fortunate follower.

Has being published changed your life? 

Being a published writer/authors has:

--helped pay the bills. 
--affirmed that what is entertaining to me is usually entertaining to others.
--ignited wonderful affirming emails from readers.
--delivered interesting new “people” (characters) from whom to learn. Seriously, my characters teach me a lot.
--made me appreciate, value and honor the power of story.
--given me a chance to travel to places I’d never have otherwise seen, especially when I wrote the Dearest Dorothy series for Penguin Books. They sent me on several marvelous book tours, from coast to coast and up and down.
--out of necessity, delivered lots of time alone, which I’ve always craved.
--helped my discipline. Deadlines!
--educated me on my utter NEED for good editors!


What do you find harder to do come up with a character, get the scenery or the plot?

I don’t actually come up with any of them; they come to me. When I am “absent” enough, they have room to arrive.

First a character shows up, one with a dilemma. They arrive the same way my imaginary friends used to: one day, they’re just there. Although this happens relatively often, I don’t write anything down. I just wait to see if they hang around, keep my attention, bug me until I simply must sit down with them for a spell, “listen” with my fingers, record what I start to see/hear, which runs like a movie in my head.

If they’re not memorable enough to keep my attention until I start writing about them, why would they be interesting to a reader?

Scenes begin to come into focus as I mentally follow the characters around, fine-tune my listening, surrender to their lives, not my version of their events and personalities. When I am listening well, the plot unfolds, as do the nuances about the characters. Eventually, they tell me where we are. As I begin to look through their eyes, I see what’s around them, meet their friends and relatives—learn their secrets and desires.

For me, writing is LISTENING, not TALKING to the page. My job is to get out of the way. Record well. Let the characters be who they are, where they are—even though I sometimes yell at them.

Which do you enjoy more e books or print books?

I enjoy books any which way, including audio. I spend a lot of time in my car, so audio books get their fair amount of attention from me. I have a longstanding membership with Audible.com, so I get a book and subscription a month. (I’m grandfathered into some old plan.)

I own a Nook Simple Touch, which I really like. I also have the Nook app on my Android smartphone. The two sync, which is nice. Since I always have my phone with me, I can read away from home whenever I find a few minutes without my eReader or a book around.

The Nook fits in my handbag, which is nice. But my favorite place to read it is in bed, even though I usually don’t stay awake long after I start reading.  I love sleeping in a cold room, and I can bundle the covers all around me with nothing out but my one hand holding the Nook. It’s even easy to turn the pages this way. LOVE it!

If, however, you saw the piles of books that surround me, and that I continue to buy, you’d wonder what I’m doing with a Nook.  New, used, rereading … 

It’s the words—the story—that matter most. Not how I consume them. A captivating story will keep my attention, no matter how it's consumed.

But in the end, seeing books on a shelf is more satisfying than seeing them on a “shelf” in a fragile electronic. I’m hard on books. I like writing in the margins, starring, underlining, arguing, dog earring, making notes in the front of books so I can easily find favorite things again …  We live in an unincorporated area, so I don’t have a library card. For the amount one would cost per year, I can buy a fair amount of books. Good thing, since I’m sure the library wouldn’t take any of mine back. 




Thank you so much Charlene for this wonderful interview. I thought you answers were most intriguing. 
Followers here are the rules for the giveaway.

Leave a comment with your name and email address. You will not be entered unless you leave a comment AND your email address.


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~Be or become a follower  +1
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Contest is only open in the U.S. and void where prohibited. Chances of winning are based on the number of entries and winner is draw from a non-biased third party- Random.org.  ENTRY DEADLINE  May 19, 2012

Author Interview with Dan Walsh featuring The Discovery and BOOK GIVEAWAY

I've always enjoyed books by Dan Walsh and The Discovery is one of the best. Here is my review link if you would like to look to see how much I loved it. 
http://thelifeandtimesofwanda.blogspot.com/2012/04/discovery-by-dan-walsh-review.html 


I would like to thank Dan for this fantastic interview and book giveaway. Also I agree completely with how you feel about books in print form. Now to the interview!

Tell us about The Discovery the featured book.


Here's the way it's described on the back of the book. Seems to say it pretty well without giving too much away:


When aspiring writer Michael Warner inherits his grandfather's historic Charleston estate, he settles in to write his first novel. But within the confines of the stately home, he discovers an unpublished manuscript that his grandfather, a literary giant whose novels sold in the millions, has kept hidden from everyone-but which he clearly intended Michael to find. As he delves deep into the exciting tale about spies and sabotage, Michael discovers something that has the power to change not only his future but his past as well.

Laced with suspense and intrigue, The Discovery is a richly woven novel that explores the incredible sacrifices that must be made to forge the love of a lifetime. 


Has being published changed your life? 


In many ways it has. It allowed me to do something I've wanted to do since high school -- write novels. I wasn't able to do this fulltime until after my 3rd novel came out. That made it possible for me to retire from pastoral ministry after 25 years. We're not rich, by any means, but finally making enough that it allowed us to transition into writing fulltime. This has also allowed me to write 2 books a year instead of one. Besides these things, I've met some wonderful new friends and now work with an amazing publishing team at Revell.

What do you find harder to do come up with a character, get the scenery or the plot?


I'm not sure which is harder of these three. In  some of my books, the plot (story) came first then the characters. With some, they were "born" at the same time. The characters don't start out as real as they become to me 50-70 pages into writing the book. I have an idea of who they are, but often they will "graduate" to the status of almost being real people that I know. After that, writing scenes with them becomes much easier. I often go back at that point and make changes to the first section of the book, to take this new understanding of the characters and adjust them to be the same person throughout the rest of the story.


Which do you enjoy more e books or print books?




Definitely print books. But I get the eBook craze. My wife is on her 2nd Kindle, and she absolutely loves it.  Both my agent and editor use them and, it seems, a growing number of my fans (judging by the sales figures). But I still like the feel of holding a real book, with actual pages that turn. Actually, I like hardback books the best, so I'm totally "old school." 
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www.danwalshbooks.com
The Discovery - AVAILABLE NOW/RT Reviews 4.5 Stars-Top Pick
Remembering Christmas - RT Reviews Top Pick/ECPA Bestseller
The Deepest Waters - "Matches the storytelling of Nicholas Sparks" - Christian Retailing
The Homecoming - RT Reviews, 4.5 Stars
The Unfinished Gift - 2 ACFW Carol Awards

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Giveaway The Discovery by Dan Walsh

Leave a comment with your name and email address. You will not be entered unless you leave a comment AND your email address.

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~Be or become a follower  +1

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Contest is only open in the U.S. and void where prohibited. Chances of winning are based on the number of entries and winner is draw from a non-biased third party- Random.org.  ENTRY DEADLINE May 16, 2012 

Tom Pawlik-author interview and BOOK GIVEAWAY-Beckon

Today I’m interviewing Tom Pawlik author of Beckon.  http://www.tompawlik.com/
I really loved this book and here is my link to the review I did of Beckon. http://thelifeandtimesofwanda.blogspot.com/2012/04/beckon-by-tom-pawlik-review.html

Also after the interview there will be a chance for you to leave a comment to win this fantastic book. Beckon is a very suspenseful, thriller.

Tom, thanks for taking the time to visit us today! I appreciate you answering these few questions. It will be fun to get to know you better. Tell us a little about yourself.

I'm blessed to have a truly wonderful wife and six healthy, terrific children. I've always dreamed of being a writer and began thinking up my own stories at an early age. Unfortunately, I never pursued it as a career for many years so my first novel wasn't publish until I was 42.

I got my first contract in 2007 from Tyndale House as a result of winning the Operation 1st Novel contest put on by Jerry Jenkins' Christian Writer's Guild.

I love to write strange, speculative novels with a touch of creepiness and unusual plot twists. The trick is to be able to do this all within a Christian world view and have something of eternal value to offer the reader. I'm hoping Christian readers will enjoy it enough to come along for the ride.

How long did you write before you were published? 

I started getting serious about writing in 1993 and finished my first novel manuscript in 1997. I tried to get it published for several years through the normal routes but with no luck. I had just about given up when I discovered the Christian Writer's Guild in 2003, and learned about their contest. That entry came in 2nd place in 2004. While I didn't get a contract, I did sign up with a literary agent who helped me shop that book around to other publishers. Also during that time I started working on my second book called VANISH, which I entered in the 2006 contest and won. So it was about 14 years from when I started to seriously pursue getting published, which I hear is pretty typical.

Tell us about Beckon the featured book.

Beckon is a creepy, sci-fi thriller about an ancient Indian legend, a hidden cave system, an unknown species of arthropod and a small town with a secret that ties all those elements together. Thematically, it's about man's inhumanity to man and his insatiable desire for immortality. And it is about what lengths we go to to save someone we love deeply.

Is there any person who has been a strong influence in your writing journey?

C.S. Lewis has been a big inspiration to me as a writer of speculative fiction. But without a doubt, Jerry Jenkins has been the single most influential person to have helped my career. His vision to help Christian authors develop led him to buy theChristian Writer's Guild and come up with the idea for the Operation 1st Novel contest, which got me my first contract. I can't commend the ministry of the CWG enough for all the great work they are doing.

How do you spend your writing days? Do you set goals to reach a certain number of words per day? Can you give us a general idea of how long it takes you to write a novel?

I typically write late at night, after the kids are in bed. I try not to let my writing interfere with my being a father. So needless to say, I'm a bit of a night owl. But the key for me is to write a little each night. I try to shoot for 500-1000 words. That usually gives me 4 months to get a first draft completed.

What are you currently reading?

I've been reading Into The Bermuda Triangle by Gian Quasar as research for a future book.

What are you writing now?

I'm working on my next proposal for Tyndale. Developing some ideas using the Jack Kendrick character from Beckon. I have some very cool directions I'd like to go (sort of Fringe meets The X-Files) but not sure how much they'll like it. Also getting ready for the release of my new ebook novella Recollection which is part of the 7 Hoursanthology coming out this summer.

Thank you once again Tom for spending this time with us. I love your books and look forward to your next one. God bless you and your writing.

Followers Tom Pawlik has agreed to give away one copy of his fantastic book Beckon.

Leave a comment with your name and email address. You will not be entered unless you leave a comment AND your email address.

Here are the ways to get extra entries:

~Be or become a follower  +1

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Contest is only open in the U.S. and void where prohibited. Chances of winning are based on the number of entries and winner is draw from a non-biased third party- Random.org.  ENTRY DEADLINE MAY 5, 2012

The Last Plea Bargain by Randy Singer * A review and Book certificate GIVEAWAY

ABOUT THE LAST PLEA BARGAIN
Plea bargains may grease the rails of justice, but for Jamie Brock, prosecuting criminals is not about cutting deals. In her three years as assistant DA, she’s never plea-bargained a case and vows she never will. But when a powerful defense attorney is indicted for murder and devises a way to bring the entire justice system to a screeching halt, Jamie finds herself at a crossroads. One by one, prisoners begin rejecting deals. Prosecutors are overwhelmed, and felons start walking free on technicalities. To break the logjam and convict her nemesis, Jamie must violate every principle that has guided her young career. But she has little choice. To convict the devil, sometimes you have to cut a deal with one of his demons.



Paperback: 432 pages
Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. (March 1, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1414333218
ISBN-13: 978-1414333212

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Randy Singer is a critically acclaimed, award-winning author and veteran trial attorney. He has penned more than 10 legal thrillers and was recently a finalist with John Grisham and Michael Connelly for the inaugural Harper Lee Prize for Legal Fiction sponsored by the University of Alabama School of Law and the ABA Journal. Randy runs his own law practice and has been named to Virginia Business magazine's select list of "Legal Elite" litigation attorneys. In addition to his law practice and writing, Randy serves as teaching pastor for Trinity Church in Virginia Beach, Virginia. He calls it his "Jekyll and Hyde thing"—part lawyer, part pastor. He also teaches classes in advocacy and civil litigation at Regent Law School and, through his church, is involved with ministry opportunities in India. He and his wife, Rhonda, live in Virginia Beach. They have two grown children. Visit his website at www.randysinger.net.


MY REVIEW
  This is the first book I’ve read of Randy Singer’s and I’m so glad I found a new author. This book The Last Plea Bargain was just fantastic.
   I’ve always believed that an author who has been a doctor/nurse, police officer/detective or in this case lawyer make the best author, because they know so much more about their kind of stories than anyone else. They have so many cases they can pull information from. I just love Randy’s book because it seems so real.
  The Last Plea Bargain I couldn’t wait to read it and couldn’t get away from it, but was sad when I read the last page. Characters in books just become your friend and The Last Plea Bargain was that kind of book.
  The Last Plea Bargain is full of suspense and all kinds of twists and turns. I was so very surprised at the ending and what a climatic ending it was. I was sitting on the edge of my seat and read the pages as fast as I could.
  I really thought the concept of The Last Plea Bargain was neat. What would happen if everyone who was caught doing something wrong wanted to go to jail instead of taking a shorter or no sentence if they could provide some needed information to the police. Very interesting.
  The Last Plea Bargain is very strong in words and characters. It isn’t simple or weak, but full of very interesting action.
  This book is the most extraordinary legal thriller I  have read and will definitely read many more of Randy Singer’s books.
A five-star book and one of the best of 2012.

Order from Amazon

Thanks to Tyndale House Publishers for providing this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255

THE LAST PLEA BARGAIN book CERTIFICATE
The prize is a certificate valid for one copy of The Last Plea Bargain AND a signed book plate from Randy.  The certificate can be redeemed at the winner’s local Christian bookstore (US only) or through Tyndale (if there is no local store).

Leave a comment with your name and email address. You will not be entered unless you leave a comment AND your email address.

Here are the ways to get extra entries:
~Be or become a follower  +1
~Be or become an email subscriber +1
~Be or become a networked blog follower +1

Contest is only open in the U.S. and void where prohibited. Chances of winning are based on the number of entries and winner is draw from a non-biased third party- Random.org.  ENTRY DEADLINE  March 31, 2012

Author Interview/Book Giveaway-Sharlene MacLaren

I really love this book. Here is my review link if you would like to read it.   http://thelifeandtimesofwanda.blogspot.com/2011/12/ellies-haven-by-sharlene-maclarena.html 

Tell us about Ellie's Haven the featured book.
Ellie’s Haven is book two in my “River of Hope” series set in Wabash, Indiana in 1928.  Here’s the book blurb taken from the back cover:

A courageous young woman seeking refuge...

Ellie Booth was never the type to run away. But she'd witnessed her stepfather commit a heartless crime, and, knowing he'll stop at nothing to keep her quiet, she has no choice but to flee. Soon, she finds herself in Wabash, Indiana, scrambling for a cover identity to evade her stepfather. For lack of a better option, she answers an ad for a wife/housekeeper/nanny, praying that her lack of experience won't be obvious.

A widowed father with no domestic skills to speak of...

Gage Cooper is reaching the end of his rope. With four children between the ages of three and ten, he needs a reliable nanny, yet each one he's hired has thrown up her hands and deserted her post. When an attractive, spirited young woman applies for the "job," he knows he should pray about the matter, but his desperation for help propels him headlong into a marriage of convenience.

A trial by fire of their wedding vows...

Ellie immediately falls in love with the Cooper children, and, not long after, with their father. Soon, the "marriage of convenience" becomes less of a business arrangement as husband and wife yield to an attraction neither one had expected. When secrets of the past and dangers of the present arise in their lives, their marriage is put to the test, and God alone knows what will become of their union.

Can you tell us how many books you have in print in the Christian market?
When Ellie’s Haven releases in February that will bring my total to 11 books.  Number 12, the final installment in my “River” series, will hit shelves in late 2012.

Is there a particular book among those you've written that you would especially recommend to our readers?  If so, why?
Haha, that’s sort of like asking a mother, “Which of your 12 children is your favorite?” I don’t really recommend any in particular other than if someone wants to read one of my three historical series, it’s best to start with volume one of each set.  The first in my “Little Hickman Creek” Series is Loving Liza Jane, number one in “The Daughters of Jacob Kane” is Hannah Grace, and in the “River of Hope” Series, you’d want to begin with Livvie’s Song. If a reader prefers stand-alone contemporary fiction then Long Journey Home, Through Every Storm, and Tender Vow are all available and I’m thrilled to add have received excellent reviews.

The Christian fiction field has rapidly expanded over the past few years.  What would you like to see happen in this field in the years to come?
Just ten years ago, Christian fiction, or as it’s more commonly referred to now, faith-based fiction, is definitely on the rise.  Authors are developing relatable, imperfect characters and realistic, page-turning plots.  I think folks appreciate being able to read a book that contains these elements minus all the sex, unnecessary violence, and vile language. Even non-Christian readers have voiced their appreciation for cleaner fiction as long as it doesn’t come off too preachy.  Authors are finding ways to present the gospel so that it draws readers to Christ rather than turns them off to His message of love and redemption. This gives faith-based fiction a more positive “face” with the average reader. My hope is that this trend will continue. Don’t get me wrong; I don’t believe in watering down the gospel, but I also don’t believe in making fiction so preachy that even Christian readers want to toss the book aside for something more realistic.  Let’s face it; Christians aren’t perfect.  If there’s a way we can show the world that God provides answers in an imperfect world, then that should be our main thrust.  I always pray that when my readers finish one of my books they won’t so much go in search of another Sharlene MacLaren book as go in search of their Bibles.  I want my readers to realize there can be true purpose and meaning to their days; that there’s a God out there who solves real-life problems and hears their cries for help.

How can readers and fans encourage you as you pursue what is sometimes a challenging and solitary job?
I love receiving fan mail!  It is the highlight of my day when someone drops me a line in my website guestbook or sends me an email.  It is like getting a whiff of the best smelling perfume on the market – it just lifts me to the heights. Writing IS a solitary job, so I connect myself to others via Facebook. When I take a quick writing break I’ll often log into FB and see what’s ‘cookin’’ with my friends.  I compare it to going to the teacher’s lounge during a recess break, something I did for 31 years. That’s where I got re-energized, refocused, and rested up for the next stretch of the day.

Many writers are also avid readers.  Do you have any favorite authors?  If so, could you name a few?
In non-fiction, I love anything by Beth Moore (who doesn’t?), Anne Graham Lotz, Sarah Young, and numerous others.  In fiction, I enjoy almost too many to name, but for starters, Jody Hedlund, Julie Lessman, Marcia Gruver, Francine Rivers, Lena Nelson Dooley, Loree Lough, Kim Vogel Sawyer, and several others. Sadly, since taking up writing, I have little time for reading unless I’m between projects.  I tell people the only author I have time to read is Sharlene MacLaren.  I sit at my computer and say, “Oh, I wonder what’s going to happen next?” because, truthfully, as a seat-of-the-pants writer, I usually don’t know!

If you could only take five books with you on a journey of ten years, which ones would you take?
Obviously, my Bible first!  What would I do without the Book of Books? I’d probably choose to take Sarah Young’s devotional book, Jesus Calling, perhaps Hannah Whitall Smith’s The Christian’s Secret of a Happy Life, Francine Rivers’ Redeeming Love, and maybe John Bunyan’s Pilgrim’s Progress. (That was a tough question.)

If you had 48 hours to hang out with any TWO people (besides Jesus), alive or dead in the history of the world who would you hang out with and what would you do?
Oh, my goodness, Beth Moore for sure and Billy Graham!  I bet in two days time I could learn so much from those two.

What three things are you most thankful for in your life?
Love these easy questions! My precious relationship with Jesus, my wonderful husband, and my adorable children and grandJOYs!

What is the most fun thing you have ever done?
It’s difficult to pin that down to just one thing, but when I think of FUN and EXCITING things in my lifetime – aside from getting married and raising wonderful daughters – I’d have to say that before I got married I stopped teaching for a year and traveled all over the U.S. and parts of Canada with 7 other singers.  We performed concerts for large conventions, small and large churches, high school assemblies, and numerous other events. We recorded albums in the Bill Gaither studio, hit the road, listened to ourselves on Christian radio, and generally had a blast spreading the gospel message in song wherever we went.  In that year, we visited approx. 40 states, so it was a whirlwind year packed with experiences I will never in my lifetime be able to duplicate.  

What are you writing now?
Currently, I’m writing book three in my “River of Hope” series titled Sofie’s Song.  This book won’t release till winter of 2012, but I will have to turn it in to my editor by June 1.  After that, I will jump into my next series!  The writer’s life (at least MY life) is eternally busy – just the way I like it!

How can readers find you on the Internet?
*You will find my website at http://www.sharlenemaclaren.com
*You can find me at Facebook by going to http://www.facebook.com/sharmaclaren. Let me know you read this interview and then request my friendship!
*Check out my MONDAY MUSINGS and THURSDAY THOUGHTS and other miscellaneous tidbits at my blog at http://www.sharlenemaclaren.blogspot.com
*And feel free to shoot me an email at smac@chartermi.net

Hope to hear from y’all VERY soon!

Thank you so much Sharlene for the wonderful, entertaining interview.
Sharlene has agreed to give her book Ellie’s Haven to one of you followers. 
Leave a comment with your name and email address. You will not be entered unless you leave a comment AND your email address.

Here are the ways to get extra entries:
~Be or become a follower  +1
~Be or become an email subscriber +1
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Contest is only open in the U.S. and void where prohibited. Chances of winning are based on the number of entries and winner is draw from a non-biased third party- Random.org.  ENTRY DEADLINE January 22, 2012