Welcome to the Blog Tour for Tales from the Matthewsburg Manse by Kate Tompkins, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!
About the Book
Title: Tales from the Matthewsburg Manse
Author: Kate Tompkins
Publisher: The Matthewsburg Manse
Release Date: October 26, 2023
Genre: Short stories/Poetry, Christian fiction, general fiction, rural fiction, wholesome fiction
When city girl Viv's husband Mark accepts his first pastoral charge in rural Matthewsburg, she wonders what to expect, and what will be expected of her. This collection of connected fiction stories, some humorous, some suspenseful, some even romantic, explores Viv's new life as she tries to find her place in the community while dealing with local gossip, old rivalries, suspected murder, sabotaged car shows, and more. Who says life in a small town is boring?
"This book entertains us with our own humanity, we laugh at human foibles, nod our heads in the mutual pains of life's adventures. Interspersed are poems expressing poignant moments. These provide a place to rest, ponder and even smile before we are once again taken on the life journey of being a spouse in a small town parish. I found myself laughing out loud on occasion. This book is a wonderful read and leaves us with the feeling that life is good." - Nita Kotiuga, retired pastor, Director of Spiritual Formation at Bakke Graduate University.
PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub
Character Interview
Interview with Viv Cottrell, main character from Tales from the Matthewsburg Manse
Can you tell us a little about yourself?
Viv Cottrell here, the pastor’s wife. I’m always reluctant to admit to that, because it leads to several expectations, including that I’m willing and able to play piano if the church organist is away, and that I’m an excellent cook who can be relied on for endless supplies of baking and casseroles. Neither of those lie among my talents.
I grew up in the suburbs of a mid-sized city, together with my two older brothers. I met Mark at a bible study at university. He was taking theology, I was taking art, but things clicked. Next thing I knew, we were married and Mark had accepted a job at Matthewsburg. I was looking forward to having a bigger garden, but wondering what I was going to do with all of my time. Silly me.
What are your hobbies or activities you enjoy?
When I’m not in my role as pastor’s wife? Lately, I’ve taken up Scottish Country Dancing. It’s good exercise and a good way to meet people. I love to garden and bird watch. Painting and drawing, and designing needlepoint pictures help fulfill my creative urge. And I enjoy talking to people and hearing their stories, though that often does fall into my role as pastor’s wife. One of my favourite things to do is sit out on the porch swing with Mark and watch the stars come out as we talk about our day.
What was your favorite part of the story?
Going on a road trip to Cape Breton with my friend Maddie. Spectacular scenery, friendly people, great music. I need to work on convincing Mark we need a vacation “Down East.”
What kind of music do you find inspiring?
I’m partial to old-fashioned hymns. My mom’s mom lived with us for several years and she loved to sing them. Hearing them reminds me of her.
What message would you like readers to ultimately take away from your story?
Everyone has problems in life, but with prayer and being willing to ask or give help, things generally work out. I sometimes act first and don’t think to pray until later, but God still comes through.
What can we look forward to coming from you in the future?
Who knows? Maybe I can learn to cook.
About the Author
Kate Tompkins lives in Montreal’s West Island, where she shares a small house and a big backyard with her husband and the latest in a series of very spoiled cats. She writes short stories, poetry (yes, the non-literary, rhyming kind), and the occasional essay. When not hanging out with her church’s writing group or getting lost down an internet rabbit hole, she can be found trying out recipes from old cookbooks for her cooking blog, Kate’s Virtual Kitchen, or outside keeping the flowerbeds in order.
Connect with Kate by visiting katetompkinsbooks.ca to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.Tour Giveaway
(1) winner will receive a $20 Amazon gift card!
Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight September 11, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on September 18, 2024. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US/CAN only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.
Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.
Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!
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