Showing posts with label interview. Show all posts
Showing posts with label interview. Show all posts

Wednesday, February 12, 2025

Blog Tour, Author Interview & Giveaway: Right Before Their Eyes by Carrie Walker

Right Before Their Eyes JustRead Blog Tour

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Right Before Their Eyes by Carrie Walker, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Right Before Their Eyes

Title: Right Before Their Eyes
Series:
Faith Endures #2
Author:
Carrie Walker
Publisher:
Mountain Brook Ink
Release Date: February 5, 2025
Genre: Romantic Women's Fiction

Sometimes the love you need most looks different than you imagined. 

Clare Martin thought nothing of agreeing to live with her dementia-ridden grandmother when her parents left on mission. Balancing that with her job as a social worker and the expectations of her career-driven boyfriend proved doable—until Grandma started a house fire. 

Mason Hughes has loved Clare for years, but the time was never right to tell her and now she’s dating someone else, fixing Mason firmly in the friend zone. He’s working to be a pediatric neurologist, a dream inspired by a special boy with a terminal brain condition and must choose a medical school. Finances are so tight he’s forced to consider a program across the country, a troubling fact he’s kept secret. 

Lucia Roberts, a seventeen-year-old on Clare’s caseload, loses her foster home and is placed in an unwelcoming group home. At every turn she’s met with rejection and becomes desperate for any proof she has value—enough to make choices that could affect the rest of her life. 

When Grandma Dottie and Lucia's paths take a dangerous turn, Clare frantically tries to save them. As their lives knit together, will they find the love that’s right before their eyes?  

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub

 

Interview with Author Carrie Walker


Can you tell us a little about yourself?


Sure :) I’m a mom of 7 who married my high school sweetheart almost 25 years ago. We live in Michigan and have always lead a very busy, fulfilling life. I call myself a “complicated introvert.” I love people and so enjoy having meaningful conversations, but put me in a new crowd and I’ll hide by the wall I promise you! 


What do you do besides writing?


Currently, my husband and I have dusted off our youth ministry hats (we served as high school youth ministers for the first ten years of our marriage) and are helping as adult leaders in our daughter’s group. So wonderful! We love playing board games, have a pet Lab, and enjoy pickleball as well.


What was your favorite part of researching for this book?

I really enjoyed the research into the lives of kids in the foster care system (though some of the things I learned made me sad, I learned so, so much.). 


How do you find visual inspiration for your characters?

I do this in different ways. Pictures is definitely one way. I’ll scroll through images of people in the right age range to find an image that looks like the character I’m envisioning. At least once in every book I have a generous friend or family member that volunteers to let me borrow their personality and looks for a character (There is one in this book too, hint. hint.). That’s always fun, since I know that person well and it’s very easy to envision their character. Sometimes I’ll tell another person about the story I’m working on and the type of character I’m trying to figure out and I can just see a light go off in their mind with ideas and when they share it gets me rolling to develop the rest.


What are some songs that you listened to or inspired you while writing your book?


“Living Out Loud” by Ed Sheeran. When the book started, I knew Clare and Mason needed a song. I went through so many, and the lyrics to this one just told their story in so many ways that I would often listen to it to get into the mindset for the characters before writing a scene. 


What message would you like readers to ultimately take away from the book?


That God is always working, even if you can’t see Him, even if you’re looking and still can’t see Him. And when the moment comes that He reveals what’ He’s done in your life, you will look back on the journey and see Him in every step of it. 


What can we look forward to coming from you in the future?

The third book in this series releases in the spring of 2026. That will be the conclusion to this three-book series and features Lucia as a lead character, Mason as he’s an adult and another new character. And you’ll be able to see how little Theo, is still changing the world, even years later.
 

More Books In This Series


About the Author

Carrie Walker

Carrie Walker is an award-winning author who lives in Michigan with her husband and seven children. As an avid reader, she pens what she loves to read, stories that bring hope to a hurting world. Besides writing, Carrie enjoys board games, time with family and counting down the days ’til Christmas.

Connect with Carrie by visiting carriewalkerwrites.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.


Tour Giveaway

(2) winners will each receive a print copy of Right Before Their Eyes as well as a $20 Amazon gift card!

Right Before Their Eyes JustRead Tours blog tour giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight February 11, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on February 18, 2025. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway


Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

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Thursday, February 6, 2025

Blog Tour, Author Interview & Giveaway: Where I Found You by Betsy St. Amant

Where I Found You JustRead Blog + Review Tour

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Where I Found You by Betsy St. Amant, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Where I Found You

Title: Where I Found You
Series:
Magnolia Bay #1
Author:
Betsy St. Amant
Publisher: Sunrise Publishing
Release Date:
February 4, 2025
Genre:
Contemporary Southern Romance

From beloved author Betsy St. Amant comes a enemies to more, Hatfields and McCoys swoon-worthy contemporary romance set in a small beach town that reminds us that true love is worth fighting for. 

Noah Hebert recently inherited the Blue Pirogue Inn—along with all its problems. He needs money to keep his beloved childhood home from being shut down by his family’s longtime nemesis, Isaac Bergeron. So when Noah’s lawyer approaches him about an additional segment of his late grandfather’s will, it’s just in the nick of time. But even from beyond the grave, his grandfather is up to his usual games. In order to receive the last portion of inheritance, Noah must follow the clues. But there’s one condition… 

Magnolia Blossom Cafe manager Elisa Bergeron is shocked to discover an acquaintance from the local Puzzlers Club left her something in his will—and even more surprised to discover they are clues to a portion of his estate. When she learns she must work with introverted inn-owner Noah Hebert to solve the puzzle, she’s torn. Growing up in the middle of a multi-generational feud between their families, she’s been taught by her father Isaac that Heberts can’t be trusted. 

When these two exes must work together to save their future, will love get a second chance or will the longstanding family feud claim another generation?

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Sunrise Publishing | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub

 

Mnterview with Author Betsy St. Amant


Can you tell us a little about yourself?

Sure! I’m a wife and mom, part of a blended family now after an unexpected divorce in 2013. My now-husband Topher and I each had a daughter when we got married almost 8 years ago, and now they’re teenagers (ages 14 and 16). I also am the proud fur-mama of a spoiled miniature Schnauzer named Cooper (aka Muffin, aka Muff-Muff, aka Sir Cooperton). In this season of my life I love reading, coffee (any caffeine source, really), baby-talking Cooper, and buying work-out clothes.


What do you do besides writing?


Well, I discovered CrossFit in January 2024, right before I turned 40, and it accidentally became my entire personality! Ha! I’m working hard toward getting my first strict pull up (you’ll know when it happens, you’ll hear me yell) I recently hit a personal record on dead-lift of 200 lbs, which was very exciting. And I’m an oil & gas landman by day, and the taxi driver of my two teen girls 24/7. Needless to say, I haven’t been bored since roughly 2006! lol


What was your favorite part of researching for this book?

Plotting the clues with my father! My dad and I are very close, and I gave him a heads-up before this book got contracted that if it did, I’d want his help writing the clues because he’s so good at that kind of stuff. We camped out in the sunroom at my parents’ house one afternoon with bottomless cups of coffee and had the best time bringing the treasure hunt to life. One of my favorite memories to date!


How do you find visual inspiration for your characters? Do you have images you can share that come close to how you picture your characters?

Yes! I create private Pinterest boards for my books, which are practical in that they let me remember at a glance my character’s hair or eye color, but are also aesthetic and fun to post about later. Sometimes if I need to hit a word count goal for the day but am not feeling very inspired, I can pull up my Pinterest board and feel that surge of motivation in wanting to bring the photos to life. Below is an image of my board for Where I Found You. You’ll see Elisa in blue, her father Isaac in a black button down, Noah in his flannel, Mama D (Delia) in her chef’s fit…





What are some songs that you listened to or inspired you while writing your book?

I actually can’t write to music, and it’s a bit of a bummer! I would love to be able to have a book soundtrack like other authors, or turn on relaxing music to set the mood of each scene. In theory, that sounds amazing, but in application, it’s a disaster. I get too distracted and over stimulated, unfortunately. But I am often inspired by movies, and I feel like Where I Found You is a nod to Fool’s Gold (2008 romantic comedy, starring Kate Hudson and Matthew McConaughey).


What message would you like readers to ultimately take away from the book?


I would love for readers to be encouraged toward forgiveness and releasing bitterness. It’s so easy to stand back as believers and see areas where other people are harboring resentment or grudges toward others, but much harder to see that in our own hearts. I hope Noah and Elisa and their family feud shine a light on those hidden places in our hearts that we’re not surrendering to the Lord and not offering others a second chance.


What can we look forward to coming from you in the future?


Books 2 and 3 in Magnolia Bay! Look for Cade and Rosalyn’s story, titled No Place Like Home, this May and in August, you’ll get to read about Linc and Zoey in Meant For Me. I also have a stand-alone Christmas rom-com releasing with Waterbrook Multnomah in September this year. (I’ve been a busy bee!)


More Books in This Series

 


About the Author

Betsy St. Amant

Betsy St. Amant Haddox is the author of over twenty romance novels and novellas. She resides in north Louisiana with her hubby, two daughters, an impressive stash of coffee mugs, and one furry Schnauzer-toddler. Betsy has a B.A. in Communications and a deep-rooted passion for seeing women restored to truth. When she’s not composing her next book or trying to prove unicorns are real, Betsy can be found somewhere in the vicinity of an iced coffee. She writes frequently for www.ibelieve.com, a devotional site for women.

Connect with Betsy by visiting betsystamant.com to follow her on social media and subscribe to email newsletter updates.


Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a paperback copy of Where I Found You and a $10 Sunrise Shop Gift Card!

Where I Found You JustRead Tours blog tour giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight February 4, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on February 11, 2025. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway


Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

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Wednesday, January 22, 2025

Blog Tour, Interview & Giveaway: The Resurrection Project by Tanya Sparks Belvin

The Resurrection Project JustRead Blog Tour

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for The Resurrection Project by Tanya Sparks Belvin, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

The Resurrection Project

Title: The Resurrection Project
Series: The Resurrection Project Series #1
Author: Tanya Sparks Belvin
Publisher: Tonya Belvin Publishing
Release Date: September 11, 2023
Genre:
Christian Futuristic, Medical Mystery

In 2034, medical student Ellen McCarthy took an internship at the mysterious Grindland Institute to fulfill a graduation requirement. But what at first seems like a boring job supervising children soon has her tangled in questions about the Institute’s Resurrection Project. Meanwhile, ER nurse Mamie Simpson is grieving the loss of her daughter, Lainey, and hoping against hope that a new scientific breakthrough will provide a miracle for her and her husband. When Ellen and Mamie's paths eventually cross, both will have to take steps of faith and courage they didn’t think possible to help save the life of a special little girl.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon (ebook/audio) | Amazon (print) | Barnes & Noble

 

Interview with Author Tanya Sparks Belvin


Can you tell us a little about yourself?

I retired from teaching after 32 years. Because I was in special education, I had to be certified in language arts and math, but language arts was my favorite subject. I had the most fun reading as I set up my personal classroom library. I encouraged my students to find books that they felt their peers would enjoy reading, and I continually read and promoted middle school literature that I hoped would excite and inspire them.

In addition to teaching, my husband and I have raised three wonderful children, and we have also been blessed with seven beautiful grandchildren.

Currently, I lead Bible studies in my neighborhood and church, and I'm an active choir member.

I also play in a neighborhood Bunco group and participate in two book clubs.

What do you do besides writing?

When I retired from teaching, I began taking care of my grandchildren. I also tried to expand my cooking skills by watching the Food Channel and challenging myself to copy some of the recipes. My ultimate goal is to do an online cooking class with my grandchildren, called "Mimi's Cooking Show." However, it appears that my grandchildren would rather consume my goodies rather than help prepare them. That's fine with me.
 
What was your favorite part of researching for this book?

I have heard others ridicule authors who claim that their writing stemmed from a dream. Well, that's exactly what happened to me at least five years before I began writing The Resurrection Project. I truly believe I was divinely directed to share this message of the sanctity of life. When I originally wrote the book in 2015, there was a prediction of a worldwide pandemic in 2020 changing the trajectory of our medical system as we knew it. After initially meeting with some agents, each one said it wasn't ready to be published, so I put it on a closet shelf and forgot about it. Then, in 2023, God told me to take it down and try again. When I reread the prediction, I was dumbfounded. I am not a prophet, but God can do anything.

As I wrote this book, I was challenged to delve into the subjects of patient care, cryogenics, genetically modified foods, etc. I enjoyed researching and adding creativity in developing this futuristic setting.

How do you find visual inspiration for your characters? Do you have images you can share that come close to how you picture your characters?

All readers put their individual images to characters within a story. That's what I do as a writer. My initial dream had L2 sitting on a bench, swinging her legs back and forth, with her shoulder-length brown hair swaying from side to side. God started me with that character, and I developed the rest. None of the other character descriptions in the book are based on anyone I know.
 
What are some songs that you listened to or inspired you while writing your book?

As you read The Resurrection Project, you will find music mentioned throughout. That is from my real life. My mother was a music teacher and choir director. Music filled my home, and I have carried it with me all my life. I am a singer. My oldest son is a praise and worship leader at his church. My middle son is a band director at a local middle school. I have Christian radio playing at home and in my car wherever I go.
 
What message would you like readers to ultimately take away from the book?

The message I believe God wants me to share is that He is our Sovereign God. Like the people in Genesis working together to create a tower to the heavens, a great majority of people today think they knew more than our Creator. In an effort to meet the medical needs of one group, they choose to take the lives of others deemed less important or even, as in the case of unborn babies, not even considered viable humans.

In the fall of 2023, I watched the movie, Sound of Freedom. It was one of the most uncomfortable films I have ever viewed and, honestly, I wanted to leave within the first few minutes. Seeing children being abducted and trafficked took me well out of my comfort zone. As I contemplated what to do, God told me to stay and finish watching. When the film concluded, I had to take a few minutes before I could stand to leave. I kept asking God why I needed to see this. At that moment, I realized that the message of that movie was also the sanctity of life. Just like the children in The Resurrection Project, the children in the film were not being seen as precious children of God with a purpose and a future to expand His kingdom. Their importance was being measured by how they could be used by others. I knew that I needed to give all the proceeds from the sales of my book to support the Tim Tebow Foundation for rescuing missing and exploited children.

What can we look forward to coming from you in the future?

I have just recently published the sequel to The Resurrection Project, Rescuing the Remnant. I hope that readers will enjoy the continuation of this "God Story."
 

More Books in This Series


About the Author

Tanya Sparks Belvin

Tanya Sparks Belvin is a retired middle school teacher, with thirty-two years of experience. Her passion is serving the Lord, reading, writing, and entertaining her seven grandchildren. Tanya, her husband, Ron, and her mother, Tommie Moton, enjoy lakeside living in Denver, North Carolina. Tanya and Ron have three adult children. The Resurrection Project is her debut novel.

Connect with Tanya by visiting tanyasparksbelvin.com.


Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a print copy of The Resurrection Project and its sequel, Rescuing the Remnant, as well as a $25 Amazon gift card!

The Resurrection Project JustRead Tours blog giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight January 20, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on January 27, 2025. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway


Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

JustRead Publicity Tours



Wednesday, December 18, 2024

Blog Tour, Author Interview & Giveaway: A Journey to Unshakable Faith by Sydney Witbeck

A Journey to Unshakable Faith JustRead Blog Tour

Welcome to the Blog Tour for A Journey to Unshakable Faith by Sydney Witbeck, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

A Journey to Unshakable Faith

Title: A Journey to Unshakable Faith
Series:
Journeys of Faith #1
Author:
Sydney Witbeck
Publisher:
Independently Published
Release Date:
July 2021
Genre:
Christian Medieval Action/Adventure Fantasy

Left with no other option, fourteen-year-old Esther is forced to leave the castle for her own safety, not knowing if she will ever see her mother and father again. With only a pack of food and her faithful horse Onyx, Esther sets off on an adventure to find her mother’s people. But the enemy is never far behind, closing in on the princess who eludes them. Will she be able to make it to safety? And will she ever see her parents again? 

When all hope seems lost, Esther soon finds that God never leaves His children on their own. At every turn, Esther meets friendly faces willing to help her as she strives to find a way to get back to her parents. With only her faith in God as her weapon, Esther turns back to home, determined to have the victory once and for all. But will that be enough? It seems that Esther will never see her parents in this world again. And all hope seems lost when Esther is finally captured and hidden away. It’s time for the villagers to take up arms and fight for their freedom. Will they prevail? Or will evil finally win? The true victory lies in finding a faith that is unshakable.  

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Buy Directly From the Author

 

Interview with Author Sydney Witbeck


Can you tell us a little about yourself?

First and foremost, I am a daughter of the King of Kings. If there is one goal I want to pursue in my writing, it is to give God the glory and make known all His wondrous works (Psalm 105:1-2). God has blessed me with wonderful parents and two sisters. They’ve been my biggest supporters on this crazy writing journey! I live out in the country in beautiful Laurens, South Carolina and help take care of our goats and chickens. Currently, I work as a manuscript editor for a Christian publishing company, Ambassador International.

What do you do besides writing?

When I’m not writing, you can usually find me curled up with my favorite book, making memories with my two sisters, helping my parents at their store – Learning Cycle Homeschool Store, or training my miniature horse, Sunny.

What was your favorite part of researching for this book?

I love castles. The idea of them, the structure, the aesthetics, the size – everything about castles is fascinating to me, especially when you throw in things like dungeons and secret rooms. I’ll try not to give away any spoilers but there is a battle scene that takes place over a couple chapters. About half of it takes place inside a castle. So, I knew I needed to figure out the layout and structure of medieval castles. I researched some and even printed out a couple castle floor plans to help me picture where people would most likely be fighting, where the strengths and weaknesses were, that sort of thing. It helped me write the scene in a way that would be realistic without being confusing. Plus, I got to look through a lot of pictures of castles as part of the research, so that was a bonus!

How do you find visual inspiration for your characters? Do you have images you can share that come close to how you picture your characters?

Characters are the first thing I imagine when it comes to starting a new story. Generally, I can already picture them and then maybe I’ll go on Pinterest and try and find a picture that matches what I see in my head. But one website I discovered midway through writing my second book that was very helpful from a visual standpoint is Armstreet.com. They sell everything from Viking jewelry to Medieval armor to Renaissance dresses. They really focus on the historic accuracy of their designs as well as the aesthetics, and I’ve found some pictures there that are close to what I was trying to imagine for my characters!

In order from left to right: Row 1 – Esther, Pellingor & Arianna (Pellingor’s hair should be darker, but I’m just picky 😊), Reia. Row 2 – Malon, Fiona.

All pictures were found on Pinterest and belong to their respective owners. Except the last one. I took the last one of my dog, Lola, who was the inspiration for Esther’s dog, Fiona.







What are some songs that you listened to or inspired you while writing your book?

I put on music with lyrics while I’m writing (especially during the first draft), my brain will become distracted! So, I tend to listen to a lot of instrumental music and soundtracks throughout my writing process. When writing my first book, the music I turned to the most was the Lord of the Rings soundtrack (which is epic even when you’re not writing, and quite helpful for getting me in the right mood to write my hardest chapter – the battle scene!)

What message would you like readers to ultimately take away from the book?

As a young, teenage Christian, I struggled a lot with doubt and assurance. I want my readers to come away from this book understanding that those feelings are real, they’re something a lot of people struggle with – even under the surface – but also that you don’t have to stay in that place of doubt and questioning. God is always there for His children, willing to help them and grow their faith. I also want readers to see the importance that Godly friends, role models, mentors, and parents have on their lives. Find those kinds of people and talk to them when you’re struggling. God uses His Word to strengthen our faith, but He also uses other believers.

What can we look forward to coming from you in the future?

I am currently working on a Nordic/Viking-inspired novel that will hopefully be released in 2025. I want to show what an impact the light of Christianity had on the spiritually dark culture at that time. It will explore the cost of Christianity and forgiving one’s enemies while featuring redemption arcs, storms at sea, and a protective older brother/reckless younger brother duo. I’m excited to share this story as I’ve been having a lot of fun writing it!
 

More Books in This Series


About the Author

Sydney Witbeck

Sydney Witbeck is a Christian self-published author. She has a strong love for the Lord, her family, church, and friends. She has been blessed with supportive parents and two sisters and often helps out at the family business, Learning Cycle Homeschool Store. An avid bookworm, Sydney is happiest curled up with a good book. She has always enjoyed reading and rereading her favorite stories – a passion that soon transferred to writing books of her own. Her writing journey began when she heard how many moms were looking for fiction novels for girls that were both clean and Christian. In her free time, she likes drawing, spending time with her dog, and caring for her miniature horse and her three goats.

Connect with Sydney by visiting storiesoffaithfulness.com.


Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card and signed paperback copies of A Journey to Unshakable Faith and the sequel, A Journey to Abiding Forgiveness.

A Journey to Unshakable Faith JustRead Tours blog giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight December 17, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on December 24, 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 only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway


Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

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Wednesday, December 4, 2024

Book Tour, Author Interview & Giveaway: An Unexpected Journey by Ann Elizabeth Fryer

An Unexpected Journey JustRead Blog Tour

Welcome to the Blog Tour for An Unexpected Journey by Ann Elizabeth Fryer, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

An Unexpected Journey

Title: An Unexpected Journey: A Regency Hobbit Retelling
Author:
Ann Elizabeth Fryer
Publisher:
Independently Published
Release Date:
November 28, 2024
Genre:
Regency Romance/Hobbit Retelling

A heritage neither of them desires, a wrong to right. A chance to end a family curse... 

When strangers tumble through the doors of once resplendent Grandview Estate, Lady Laura Tamlow is pulled into a rather unexpected journey, away from the village she's never left along with a gentleman unlike any she's ever known. 

Jonathan Canfield is out of options. And he'd do anything to restore his family fortunes in order to keep them from poverty, including roping Lady Tamlow into playing the part of thief. They must reclaim both his and her family jewels that were stolen the night of the fated Grand Masquerade of 1770, where both the Canfields and the Tamlows fell far from society's good graces. If only his thief weren't so lovely, he'd be able to focus on the mission without distraction. 

But there's a bigger problem at hand. The jewels reside at Lombard Park under the eye of Lord Herrington, a greedy dragon of a man who knows he's about to die. Yet he has bigger claims than they ever imagined and attempts to steal something far more valuable than family jewels. With deception afoot, will Jonathan ever see Lady Tamlow again? 

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub  

**The author is offering free swag to the first 20 people who purchase a paperback/hardcover book. Proof of purchase required.**

 

 Interview with Author Ann Elizabeth Fryer


Can you tell us a little about yourself?

Born and raised in Kentucky, I now live in the Midwest near St. Louis. My handsome husband of 27 years and I recently moved to a six-acre farm, where my crazy husky-poo and fluffy-aged dog live in countryside bliss. Our children are mostly grown up—we have one high school senior left! While most of the household leaves for work or lives at college, I spend my days at the writing desk or staring blankly into the woods while dreaming up the next scenes for my work-in-progress.

What do you do besides writing?

I’m a full-time writer these days, after many years of homeschooling my three kids. On my days off, I love to go antiquing. I’m into vintage everything! I found a large sign at a local thrift shop that says “museum” which is pretty accurate for my home. From books to dishes, nearly everything I own is old. I also love curling up in front of a fire with a good book or movie, cup of tea, or coffee in hand.

What was your favorite part of researching for this book?

My favorite part of researching for this story was diving back into The Hobbit, checking on story structure and what might be utilized for a Regency retelling.

How do you find visual inspiration for your characters? Do you have images you can share that come close to how you picture your characters?

I thought them up as the character’s personalities came on the page. They gradually grew from the inside, from the heart of them, outward. I haven’t played around with stock images or AI to create my look-alikes for the story, but that might be fun to do! But now that I think about it, Richard Armitage, who played in The Hobbit movie, wouldn’t be a bad example of my hero. Just no beard or long hair.

What are some songs that you listened to or inspired you while writing your book?

So YouTube has some pretty sweet Shire-sounding music that will play for hours. I listened to a lot of that along with British folk music.

What message would you like readers to ultimately take away from the book?

I would love for my readers to get the sense that the dragons we face are entirely fallible. That hope is stronger than fear and evil. And that love, even romantic love, is an element of that kind of hope. We aren’t meant to journey alone—but even if we find ourselves seemingly alone, God is with us—to the end of all things.

What can we look forward to coming from you in the future?


I’m already working on book two for this duology. Besides that, at least two more Butterton Brides novels are in the works.
 


About the Author

Ann Elizabeth Fryer

Ann Elizabeth Fryer loves nothing more than using story and romance to relay the depths and graciousness of a Father who holds us securely in the palms of His hands. Daydreaming her surroundings from a young age, she's lived in historic homes most of her life and regularly participates in backyard archaeology. When she's not writing historical projects, her contemporary novels show a flavor of her forever-passion for all things old. Ann, her husband, and three children make their home in small-town Illinois where they can hear church bells keep time and tradition.

Connect with Ann by visiting annfryerwrites.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.


Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a hardcover copy of An Unexpected Journey, a tote bag, swag, and a $10 Amazon gift card!

(1) additional winner will receive an ebook copy of An Unexpected Journey!

An Unexpected Journey JustRead Tours blog tour giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight December 2, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on December 9, 2024. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. No shipping restrictions. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway


Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

JustRead Publicity Tours



Friday, October 25, 2024

Blog Tour, Author Interview & Giveaway: Frittered Moments by Allison Pearl

Frittered Moments JustRead Blog Tour

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Frittered Moments by Allison Pearl, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Frittered Moments

Title: Frittered Moments
Series:
Love and Danger in St. Claire #5
Author:
Allison Pearl
Publisher:
Anaiah Press, LLC
Release Date:
October 23, 2023
Genre:
Romantic Suspense

Deputy US Marshal, Perry Cole is back in the small town of St. Claire, and he didn’t come alone. Joined by the FBI and a witness who could crack his case wide open, Perry hopes to finally track down one of the most elusive criminals he’s ever targeted. But just as the hunt begins, a murder derails his plans. Now he must partner with the cute-but-snarky Deputy Sheriff Erin Kaminski to find the killer. Perry quickly finds himself getting distracted by the feelings Erin stirs up in him, and if he doesn’t get his head back in the game, one of them may end up at the top of the murderer’s hit list. 

The locals wanted someone else for the Deputy Sheriff position, but Erin Kaminski knows in her heart that St. Claire is where she’s meant to be. And finally, just as she becomes a familiar face to the locals, the FBI and US Marshals show up, making trouble. She wants them to do their job and leave, and so she becomes their local liaison. But when someone turns up dead, she wants to be the one calling the investigative shots. Instead, she’s partnered with the admittedly charming, but overly skeptical, marshal who thinks her faith is nothing but fantasy. With Perry’s constant questions and distracting lure, she needs to keep her head clear enough to see the danger creeping her way—or she’ll end up losing everything.  

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Anaiah Press | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub


Interview with Author Allison Pearl


Can you tell us a little about yourself? 
 
Sure, but I’m pretty boring overall. When not writing or reading, I like to swim and work on little projects around the house. Our home is over a hundred years old and I’m always doing what I can bit by bit to make it into the dream version of it in my head.
 
What do you do besides writing? 
 
Read, mostly. I’ve really been into audio books during the day. Listening to a thriller or mystery makes the chores much more enjoyable. But in the evenings, I’m back to the stories I can hold in my hand. Cozy mysteries are my favorite bedtime reading choice.

What was your favorite part of researching for this book? 
 
I always like reading into the different roles of law enforcement. When I have a police officer, a deputy sheriff, and a US Marshal in a scene, I have to know who outranks who and when. It’s fun running through the hypotheticals and then looking through sources to make sure I’ve got it right.

How do you find visual inspiration for your characters? Do you have images you can share that come close to how you picture your characters? 
 
The personalities of my characters influence their appearance more than anything. As I craft their personal strengths and weakness, or their internal conflicts, a picture starts to form, and I’m like, ‘Yeah, she feels like a blond.’ Because of that process, I really can’t point to a real person as the basis for a character. But I have had people send me pictures of the people they are reminded of as they read my books, and some of them have been super on point which is fun.

What are some songs that you listened to or inspired you while writing your book? 
 
I find that listening to any music that includes lyrics while I write, distracts me from the writing. But I can’t handle silence either, and so I end up listening to film scores, classical music, or instrumental music. Music by composer, Max Richter, pops up a lot in my work playlists.

What message would you like readers to ultimately take away from the book? 
 
My favorite message from ‘Frittered Moments’ is that there is no right way to find your purpose. Sometimes life goes according to plan, and sometimes life makes its own plan.

What can we look forward to coming from you in the future? 
 
I’m currently working on a cozy mystery series that I’m excited about, but it’s still in progress, so more details will be coming.

More Books in This Series


About the Author

Allison Pearl

Allison Pearl is a small-town girl who’s lived just about everywhere. She loves books, tea, coffee, snacks, and watching old movies with her husband and crazy cats.

Connect with Allison by visiting allison-pearl.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates. You can also check out her Facebook page ‘Books by Pearl’ at @allisonnicolepearl or follow her on Twitter at @AllisonPearl5 and Instagram at @allisonnicolepearl.


Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card and kindle copy of Frittered Moments!

Frittered Moments JustRead Tours blog tour giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight October 21, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on October 28, 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.

Enter Giveaway


Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

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Friday, August 16, 2024

Blog Tour, Double-Interview & Giveaway: Something Borrowed by Rachel Scott McDaniel, Allison Pittman, and Susie Finkbeiner

Something Borrowed JustRead Blog + Review Tour

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Something Borrowed by Rachel Scott McDaniel, Allison Pittman, and Susie Finkbeiner, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Something Borrowed

Title: Something Borrowed
Authors:
Rachel Scott McDaniel, Allison Pittman & Susie Finkbeiner
Publisher:
Kregel
Release Date:
August 13, 2024
Genre:
Christian Historical Romance Collection

One Perfect Dress--three different Love stories 

In this brand-new novella collection, three renowned Christian historical fiction authors trace generations of wartime romances through a special wedding dress with love sewn into its seams.

 "A Heart in Disguise" by Rachel Scott McDaniel Clara Westlake loves her job as a seamstress in the US "Camouflage Corps," sewing suits for snipers and contributing to the war effort. But when she overhears a threat against her beloved New York City, the Great War comes too close to home--except no one believes her forewarning. She must recruit Marcus Reeves, a childhood friend searching for his purpose after suffering a devastating war injury. As they search for answers together, they may also uncover a love that lasts.  

"A Letter to Eli" by Allison Pittman Bette and Alice are lifelong friends, trying to make a good life for themselves in New York City while World War II rages. It's never far away from their thoughts--not with Alice's fiancé serving at sea, in danger every minute. That's a worry Bette doesn't envy. Then a secret letter reunites her with her soldier ex-boyfriend, now wounded and back in the States. But can the innocent love these two had before the war be rekindled in the face of tragedy?  

"A Daffodil in the Dress" by Susie Finkbeiner Kate Becker and Ike Finch have worked together at his family's bookstore since Kate's husband died in the early days of the Vietnam War. She has her daughter, Eloise, to take care of and bills to pay, and this job was a godsend. A second love is not in the cards, especially not with the world still teetering on the edge of insanity. But when Ike brings little Eloise special flowers one spring day, Kate begins to look at him as more than an employer. Is falling in love again worth the risk?

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | ChristianBook | Bookshop

 

Interview with Authors Rachel Scott McDaniel & Susie Finkbeiner


Can you tell us a little about yourself?
 
Rachel: Basically, I’m a stay-at-home mom with a vivid imagination. So while I’m folding laundry or dicing vegetables, I’m usually dreaming up a story. 

Susie: Sure! I live with my husband and our three kids (plus our one cat) in West Michigan. I’m the author of novels like The All-American, All Manner of Things, The Nature of Small Birds, and Stories That Bind Us. Something Borrowed is my tenth book!

What do you do besides writing?
 
Rachel: I love to read. I no doubt read more than I write. I’m also a huge outdoorsy person. I love to spend as much time as I can outside. Give me a book and sunshine, and I’m one happy lady.
 
Susie: These days I spend a lot of time in the car, transporting teens to their various activities. But, honestly, I love being a cross country/track/drama/soccer/basketball mom.

When I’m not on taxi duty, I enjoy acting in plays at my local community theatre (shout out to Master Arts Theatre!). I also sing on the worship team at church, enjoy lunch dates with my husband, and reading here and there throughout the day.

What was your favorite part of researching for this book?

Rachel: I absolutely loved learning about the early days of camouflage. When I landed on a website featuring the U.S. Women’s Camouflage Corps, I knew I wanted to write my story revolving around these brave seamstresses who designed rock suits for snipers overseas.
 
Susie: Writing this novella was an interesting experience. For one, I’ve researched the 1960s for the better part of a decade, so I was already up to speed about the history and pop culture of the time. For two, this was my very first time writing a romance. Honestly, I found myself researching how to write kissing scenes and learning the various tropes and the meaning of HEA (happily ever after, I found out). My favorite part of research was picking Bethany Turner’s brain for how to do all things smoochie.

Do you like to find visual inspiration for your characters before or during your writing process?

Rachel: Hmm…the answer to this question changes with each story. For “A Heart in Disguise,” I couldn’t find any stock photos or celebrity that matched the picture of my characters in my head. Because I focus a lot on the emotional aspect of the characters in this story, I felt I didn’t need a physical image constantly before me. Again, this changes with each story, so maybe for the next book I’ll find a visual representation that inspires my creativity.
 
Susie: I actually don’t use images when I’m developing my characters. I just sort of picture them in my mind. To tell you the truth, I am so picky that if I tried to scour the internet for pictures of what my characters would look like, I’d spend far more time than I should trying to find just the right photo.

What are some songs that you listened to or inspired you while writing your novella?

Rachel: I listen to a lot of instrumental music while I’m writing, because lyrics tend to distract me. I have a perpetual bad habit of singing along to my faves, and so that renders me unproductive in writing LOL. But for this story, I listened to the Netflix Persuasion soundtrack on repeat.
 
Susie: Oh, this is always my favorite question to answer! I, as you may suspect, listened to lots of 1960s music while writing. Of course that includes Aretha Franklin, Simon & Garfunkel, The Beatles, The Supremes, Bob Dylan, Joan Baez…the list could go on forever!

What message would you like readers to ultimately take away from your novella?

Rachel: My hope is for readers to grasp the importance of following your heart, even when it’s inconvenient or unpopular. It sounds like a cliché but often we let our own reasoning and other people’s opinions to sway us from our heart’s directive. It’s important to be true to yourself.
 
Susie: At one point in my story Katie—my protagonist—says, “New things deserve the chance to grow.” For Kate, that ends up being a new love that deserves the chance to thrive, as scary as that can be. For someone else, that might mean letting a new passion have time to develop or a new friendship the chance to deepen.

New things are scary. But often, if we let them grow, we can see that they’re a chance that God gives us to have a more beautiful life.

What can we look forward to coming from you in the future?

Rachel: My next novel The Dreams We Knew releases in February 2025. This is the second story from the Roaring 20s duology, and I’m super excited about this book!
 
Susie: I usually have a great answer for this question. But at the moment the only answer I have is this: I don’t know! For the first time in eleven years I don’t have a contract which is both freeing and terrifying. So, I’m doing some research and early writing for a project that I’ve wanted to write for years. I’m also doing my best to trust that God has a purpose for this new story and a place for it to live.


About the Authors

Rachel Scott McDaniel

Rachel Scott McDaniel is an award-winning author of historical romance. Winner of the ACFW Genesis and the RWA Touched by Love awards, Rachel infuses faith and heart into each story. She enjoys life in Ohio with her husband and two kids.

Connect with Rachel at rachelmcdaniel.net to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

Allison Pittman

Allison Pittman is the author of multiple award-winning books, including The Seamstress and For Time and Eternity. She is also copresident of a Christian writers group in her hometown of San Antonio, Texas.

Connect with Allison at allisonkpittman.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

Susie Finkbeiner

Susie Finkbeiner is the author of The All-American and All Manner of Things which were both selected as Michigan Notable Books. Her other novels include Stories That Bind Us, The Nature of Small Birds, and the Pearl Spence series. Susie and her husband live in West Michigan with their three children.

Connect with Susie at susiefinkbeiner.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.


Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will win a signed print copy of Something Borrowed and some book-related goodies!

Something Borrowed JustRead Tours blog giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight August 12, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on August 19, 2024. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Book will be signed by at least one of the authors. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway


Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

JustRead Publicity Tours