Review: The Souls of Lost Lake

In case you weren't aware, Jamie Jo Wright is quite the storyteller. With her latest release, she had me hooked from the start. My favorite part was the subtext between Eddie and Wren. Overall, Eddie was my favorite character. The Souls of Lost Lake is now my favorite book by this author. 

The novel opens with a campfire ghost story about Ava Coons, a woman who supposedly killed her family like Lizzie Borden. Oh yeah, and there's a creepy, mysterious body of water—Lost Lake, and for any LOTR fans, there are plenty of Tolkien references. Are you with me so far? 

So, if it's so creepy, why should you read this? Well, most Jamie Jo Wright fans know things aren't always what they seem in her stories. ;) I won't say more because I don't want to give anything away. 

It's a time slip novel with dual timelines that focuses on Wren Blythe in the present and the infamous Ava Coons in the past. 

If you enjoy suspenseful stories that are a tad creepy, you might like this novel. Not only is it suspenseful, but it includes romance and history, as well as the faith struggles of the main characters. 

The Souls of Lost Lake is available on Amazon. Bethany House is the publisher. 

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09B2Q86C8/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_XWWENQBKQ7N5K091M637

Interview with Author Michelle L. Levigne

Please welcome today's guest, Author Michelle L. Levigne. Her new cozy mystery, The Unwelcome Wagon, came out April 1, 2022. I hope you enjoy my interview with Michelle.

 

 

Which of your characters was/is your favorite? Why?

Right now, my favorite character is M'kar. She's based on my Star Trek "persona," when I was in a Star Trek club in California. We had such fun making up adventures, writing "ships logs" and sometimes utterly silly adventures, where our characters roamed the galaxy. M'kar is a Talent, focused on animals, assigned to the AFV Defender, in a galactic civilization known as the Alliance. (Yes, a lot of similarities to the Federation …) The Defender has a reputation of being a misfit kind of ship, with misfit luck, but they always come out on top despite truly bizarre adventures. The series is called (surprise!) The AFV Defender, and has a Middle-Grade series spin-off called Young Defenders, which is about the children growing up below decks, with all their adopted aunts and uncles teaching them how to be heroes, despite their youth.

I have a lot of fun with M'kar because she comes from a barbarian culture. Her father is a mountain of a man, and when he left his homeworld to protect his half-breed daughter and her scientist mother, he chose to become a writer of children's books and poetry, just to defy the stereotyped barbarian image. He's loud and outrageous and children adore him. M'kar is snarky and can't quite understand why the children on the ship adore her. She teaches them self-defense and survival skills and growls a lot. I am currently working on the 3^rd AFV Defender book, titled "All the Boys I've Loathed Before," which follows M'kar's growing up years and all the problems she has being a half-breed, and all the power-seekers and politicians who try to use her questionable status for their own profit. Until she gets the better of them. Somewhat by accident.

Do you write in more than one genre? If so, which genres?

Oh, yeah. Science fiction, fantasy, romance -- and then variations in Young Adult and Middle Grade, romantic suspense, inspirational romance, and now my newest foray, cozy mystery, with The Unwelcome Wagon, Book 1 of the Book & Mug Mysteries.

What made you decide to become a writer?

Short answer: Semester exams.

Long answer: I went to a college prep high school, and we had semester exams, 2 a day for a week, very important part of our grades. I had a bad habit of finding a movie or TV show or book that snagged my imagination and just daydreaming variations of the story, rewriting it, or coming up with new adventures or episodes. Well, semester exams were coming up and I needed to study. So, I had always managed to kill stories before when I wrote them down, so I wrote this book idea down …. And that was more than 40 years and 100-plus novels and novellas ago.

I LOVE story. I love adventures, and putting characters into situations and seeing how they react and survive. Or not survive. It's an obsession, sometimes. The rest of the time, writing is my mental health exercise.

Which authors have most influenced your writing?

Homer -- although maybe I should really blame the Kirk Douglas movie, "Ulysses," because it snagged my interest when I was in junior high, I did some research and learned about The Odyssey, and found  a really good translation and read it and one of my first published novels was Penelope's side of The Odyssey.

CS Lewis -- of course -- reading about Narnia and the Space Trilogy "baptized" my imagination, much as he said George MacDonald baptized his. I wanted to go to other worlds and explore and have magical adventures. Some of my favorite books that I've written have some aspect of a portal fantasy in them.

Terry Pratchett -- silly, snarky British humor

Neil Gaiman -- have only read a few of his books, but they're awesome. I especially love listening to him read the audiobook versions of his own books. Gave me the courage to do my own narrating, turning my own books into audio.

David Eddings, Anne McCaffrey, Janet Evanovich, Meg Cabot, Lois McMaster Bujold, Ann Crispin, Mary Stewart, Patricia Wrede, Diane Duane -- each have contributed something to my imagination, and given me imaginary worlds to explore or characters to want to be like when/if I ever grow up ….

How many books have you written?

Last time I stopped to count, over 100. A good number of them are out of print, and I'm hoping to "redeem" and revise most of them and get them back into print.

 

BLURB:

Saundra Bailey has a rough few first days after moving to Camden Township to be the new children's librarian. First a strange man who smells of cheap cigars tries to get into her apartment, then she’s caught between two Welcome Wagon teams, which results in her feeling rather unwelcome. When Cigar Man later tries to steal her purse, she meets Kai, owner of Book & Mug, a coffee shop and bookstore. Cigar Man tried to break into the building Kai owns with his cousins, Eden and Troy, after trying to hire Eden, an investigator, to find lost family documents.

As Saundra settles into her new job and home, she learns about the political and social feuds and alliances in town. Then Cigar Man breaks into the Book & Mug building in the middle of the night, falls from a fire escape, and dies. The hunt is on to figure out what he was looking for, who was the other man with him when he fell, and whose side the mysterious accomplice is on.

Head Trustee Roger Camden, descendant of a founding father, has a growing list of grudges against the cousins and gets in the way of their investigation. Their building used to belong to his family. He accuses them of being in league with Cigar Man, who apparently was seeking Camden family documents. The foursome scramble to put together clues and identify Cigar Man’s accomplice before he hurts more people and makes more evidence and clues vanish.

Available on Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/Unwelcome-Wagon-Book-Mug-Mysteries-ebook/dp/B09T3VJT2D/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1649350600&sr=8-1

BIO:

On the road to publication, Michelle fell into fandom in college and has 40+ stories in various SF and fantasy universes. She has a bunch of useless degrees in theater, English, film/communication, and writing. Even worse, she has over 100 books and novellas with multiple small presses, in science fiction and fantasy, YA, suspense, women's fiction, and sub-genres of romance.

Her official launch into publishing came with winning first place in the Writers of the Future contest in 1990. She was a finalist in the EPIC Awards competition multiple times, winning with Lorien in 2006 and The Meruk Episodes, I-V, in 2010, and was a finalist in the Realm Awards competition, in conjunction with the Realm Makers convention.

Her training includes the Institute for Children’s Literature; proofreading at an advertising agency; and working at a community newspaper. She is a tea snob and freelance edits for a living (MichelleLevigne@gmail.com for info/rates), but only enough to give her time to write. Her newest crime against the literary world is to be co-managing editor at Mt. Zion Ridge Press and launching the publishing co-op, Ye Olde Dragon Books. Be afraid … be very afraid. 

SOCIAL MEDIA:

www.Mlevigne.com
www.MichelleLevigne.blogspot.com
www.YeOldeDragonBooks.com
www.MtZionRidgePress.com
@MichelleLevigne
 
Look for Michelle's Goodreads groups:
Guardians of Neighborlee
Voyages of the AFV Defender
Neighborlee Streets

NEWSLETTER:

Want to learn about upcoming books, book launch parties, inside information, and cover reveals?
Go to Michelle's website or blog to sign up.

ALSO BY MICHELLE L. LEVIGNE:

Guardians of the Time Stream: 4-book Steampunk series
The Match Girls: Humorous inspirational romance series starting with A Match (Not) Made in Heaven
Sarai's Journey: A 2-book biblical fiction series
Tabor Heights: 20-book inspirational small town romance series.
Quarry Hall: 11-book women’s fiction/suspense series
For Sale: Wedding Dress. Never Used: inspirational romance
Crooked Creek: Fun Fables About Critters and Kids: Children’s short stories.
Do Yourself a Favor: Tips and Quips on the Writing Life. A book of writing advice.
To Eternity (and beyond): Writing Spec Fic Good for Your Soul. A book defending speculative fiction.
Killing His Alter-Ego: contemporary romance/suspense, taking place in fandom.
The Commonwealth Universe: SF series, 25 books and growing
The Hunt: 5-book YA fantasy series
Faxinor: Fantasy series, 4 books and growing
Wildvine: Fantasy series, 14 books when all released
Neighborlee: Humorous fantasy series
Zygradon: 5-book Arthurian fantasy series
AFV Defender: SF adventure series
Young Defenders: Middle Grade SF series, spin-off of AFV Defender
Magic to Spare: Fantasy series
Book & Mug Mysteries: cozy mystery series starting in 2022
Quest for the Crescent Moon: fantasy series starting in 2022

 

Who killed the rat that lives in the House that Jack built?

Author Clare Revell has written over sixty-five stories, with four more on the way. Today, I am featuring The House That Jack Built, Clare's sixth book involving DS Zander Ellery and DC Isabel York.

Book Excerpt:

DCI Britton lifted one eyebrow. “And you picked that up from one episode. Are you sure you don’t watch it?”

“I’m a cop. I’m paid to notice things. And I only saw ten minutes of it, before the channel was changed. That was plenty.”

The door opened and DS Philips strode in. “This better be important, sir. I have to charge or release someone by ten and I’m in the middle of re-interviewing him.”

“This won’t take long, Dane. Take a seat.”

DS Philips dropped into the chair next to Zander. “What’s going on?”

“Everyone’s favourite TV show apparently,” Zander rolled his eyes. “Jack’s House. It’s waaayyy more important than any proper work we have this morning.”

“I know it well. The wife’s addicted to it.”

“Then maybe she’d like to come in and discuss it with the DCI. I have a mountain of paperwork to do.” Zander stood. “So, if you don’t mind…”

“Actually, sergeant, I do.” DCI Britton tapped his fingers on the desk. “Sit down. What did you make of Silas, Zander?”

Zander slumped into the chair againsat and sucked in a deep breath, still miffed he was sitting here discussing a programme he’d seen briefly, once. “Bit of a bully to be honest. Rough, rude, not the sort of person you’d want to meet in a dark alley at night. Why?”

“He’s dead.”

Zander straightened. Now he was interested. “Dead how exactly?”

Purchase Link: https://www.amazon.co.uk/House-That-Jack-Built-Ellery-ebook/dp/B09TGMZ719

Author Bio:

Clare is a British author. She lives in a small town just outside Reading, England with her husband, whom she married in 1992, two of their three grown children, unfriendly mini-panther, aka Tilly the cat and newest member Ty the dog. Clare is half English and half Welsh, which makes watching rugby interesting at times as it doesn’t matter who wins.

Writing from an early childhood and encouraged by her teachers, she graduated from rewriting fairy stories through fan fiction to using her own original characters and enjoys writing an eclectic mix of romance, crime fiction and children's stories. When she's not writing, she can be found reading, crocheting or doing the many piles of laundry the occupants of her house manage to make.

Her books are based in the UK, with a couple of exceptions, thus, although the spelling may be American in some of them, the books contain British language and terminology and the more recent ones are written in UK English. 

The first draft of every novel is hand written.

Btw, working from home is a myth and invented by someone who doesn't have a dog!

She can be found at:

http://clarerevell.com

https://www.facebook.com/ClareRevellAuthor

https://twitter.com/ClareRevell

http://telscha.blogspot.co.uk/

https://uk.pinterest.com/ClareLRevell/

https://www.instagram.com/clarerevell/

https://www.amazon.co.uk/-/e/B005NZT2O2

https://www.amazon.com/-/e/B005NZT2O2

http://pelicanbookgroup.com/ec/index.php?main_page=index&manufacturers_id=45 https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4476220.Clare_Revell

https://www.bookbub.com/profile/clare-revell 

newsletter sign up - http://eepurl.com/chtmdH

Ghosts of Trumball Mansion: Interview with Author Linda Rondeau

Please welcome today's guest, Author Linda Rondeau. Her latest title releases on March 15, 2022. I hope you enjoy my interview with Linda.

 

The title of your upcoming release is Ghosts of Trumball Mansion. What's the story behind the story? Are there ghosts in the book?

I was mowing the lawn one day, and I noticed how the yard was overcome by weeds. I thought about how marriages are often soured, not by infidelity but by lack of proper attention to one another. Henry and Sylvia began to take shape in my mind, a romance writer and her publisher husband. I wanted to write a story about a marriage on the rocks and how Satan will use anything at his disposal, including rumors of hauntings, to keep an injured marriage from healing. I chose New Haven, Connecticut, and Manhattan for the settings because of some familiarity with these cities ... my son lived in each location for several years. With the exception of the Battle of New Haven, the city was kept from most of the fighting during the revolutionary war. Governor Trumball was allowed to retain his political position, one of the few who did during this time thus providing opportunities in New Haven for the patriots to gather to make war plans. the mansion on the cover is actually a photograph of the governor's mansion in Colonial Williamsburg.

 

ABOUT THE GHOSTS OF TRUMBALL MANSION: Romance writer, Sylvia Fitzgibbons, aka Lana Longstreet, impetuously purchased the Donner Estate, the former Trumball Mansion built by a relative of Governor Trumball and rumored to be haunted. Lana Longstreet thought the estate and the rumors would be a great backdrop for publicity. Though Henry is claustrophobic and the commute to the Manhattan office would be grueling, he does try to stay at the mansion. For the love of his wife and children, he would endure the emotional struggle to commute ... but there are ghosts in the ballroom. They taunt him as they dance the minuet. This proves to be more than he can handle. He returns to their Manhattan apartment. They decide to keep the marriage in name only because they have a business to manage. Henry does come to Connecticut on occasion for the children and launch parties, but the ghosts continue to haunt him with every visit. The only draw to the mansion is the rose gardens. They're symbolic ... how they fight to survive against all odds gives him hope that by some miracle he and Sylvia can salvage their love, even given the challenges that face them.

 After fifteen years of masquerading as husband and wife, however, both Henry and Sylvia, independently consider if the time has come to end the marriage. Like the rose gardens,  now threatened by encroaching vines, their love for one another has been neglected, perhaps beyond hope.  Sylvia realizes how important the roses are to Henry. But since she has a deadline on a new detective series, she knows Henry must help her save the gardens. He agrees to move in for the summer ... he owes the roses to do whatever he can, though his knowledge of roses could fill the tip of the proverbial pin. When the housekeeper is injured and unable to return to work, Sylvia is more dependent on Henry than ever. As the summer progresses, the couple begins to rediscover one another and reconciliation seems almost possible until the evil in the home becomes more aggressive and a lawsuit threatens to destroy their business. Only faith can rid the home of the evil presence and save their marriage.

Buy link: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09SH2LRSH

View the trailer: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/9zSXM-K9m8I

ARE THERE GHOSTS?

Although, once they become Christians and they realize the presence in the home is most likely Satanic, I do leave the reader the option for deciding for themselves. Henry asks, "I wonder, Sylvia, do we bring the evil upon ourselves?" The title is also symbolic for the ghosts in Sylvia and Henry's past, their emotional baggage, hurt, and misunderstandings, that intrude on their marriage and keep them from committing their lives to the Lord.

What do you like to do when you're not writing?

My husband and I enjoy spending time with our children and grandchildren. We also enjoy museums and are appreciative of living near our nation's capital to have access to the Smithsonian. We are both avid golfers and are active in our church. On occasion, I have the privilege of leading a workshop on writing. I am a managing editor for Elk Lake Publishing, so my spare time is limited. I'm fortunate that my husband enjoys cooking and has taken over much of the household duties.

How many books have you written? Which is your favorite?

With fourteen traditionally published books, trying to choose a favorite is like trying to choose a favorite child. They are all my babies. Perhaps my futuristic political thriller, The Fifteenth Article, was the most fun to write because it was so far afield of my typical contemporary general fiction. I am now working on the prequel as well as a Biblical Fiction ... Babel's Children ... again not what I normally write. I do like a challenge.

 Author Bio:

Award-winning author, Linda Wood Rondeau writes stories that grip the heart, inspired by her nearly thirty years of social work. When not writing or speaking, she enjoys the occasional round of golf, visiting museums, and taking walks with her best friend in life, her husband of forty-five years. The couple resides in Hagerstown, Maryland where both are active in their local church. Readers may learn more about the author, read her blog, or sign up for her newsletter by visiting www.lindarondeau.com.

Social Media:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/lwrondeau

Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/linda-wood-rondeau

Amazon author page: https://www.amazon.com/Linda-Wood-Rondeau/e/B006FNG1BI

Facebook author page: https://www.facebook.com/lindawoodrondeau

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorlindawoodrondeau/  

Undercover Dog Dad: Interview with Author Erin Stevenson

Please welcome today's guest, Author Erin Stevenson. She released her latest title, Undercover Dog Dad, in December 2021. I hope you enjoy my interview with Erin. 

--The title of your book is Undercover Dog Dad. Do you have any animals?

Yes, I have a dog, Macy. She is a border collie mix, and also has some Mini Aussie. Technically she is a "pandemic dog" since I got her in October of 2020, but I had been looking for a dog for well over a year prior.

The dog on the book cover, Watson, belongs to my oldest son and his family. I've known him for about ten years! He is a total sweetie.

Our family is pretty dog crazy. Together, we have nine dogs and several others that have crossed the rainbow bridge. Most of the "minor character" dogs in the book are based on some of these family dogs.

--How many books have you written?

I just released my 9th book, and the 10th will be out on May 13, 2022.

--What made you want to become a writer?

I've been writing my whole life! I was editor of my high school newspaper, have an academic background and did a lot of writing in that phase of my career, I still do a little writing for a magazine, and take on editing gigs whenever I can find the time. I made the shift to writing fiction in 2014.

Author Bio:

Since 2014, Erin Stevenson has been writing faith-based romance novels for Pelican Book Group and Winged Publications. She is a member of ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers), where she has served as a judge and was a 2021 Carol Award finalist.

Grounding her novels in reality, Erin crafts characters who encounter events and hardships familiar to all of us. Her inspirational writing will take the reader down paths of both joy and pain, but always highlighting God’s faithfulness.

Book Blurb:

Mallory Morris loves Autumn Springs, Tennessee, and fall is her favorite season of all. It’s filled with crisp, cool evenings, bonfires, football, and lots of visits to the dog park with her canine posse. But a rash of home burglaries is casting a pall over her hometown, and her cousin the sheriff isn’t making any headway in solving them. But all that changes when she meets a scruffy stranger at the dog park, who clearly doesn’t like dogs!

Garrett Alexander agreed to come to Autumn Springs from Arizona to help his old friend solve a puzzling case. What he didn’t bargain for was becoming a temporary dog dad, gaining a beautiful partner with the cutest Southern twang, and having sweet tea constantly pushed on him (the abominable stuff!).

Their resolve to keep things professional changes quickly when they put their heads together—figuratively and then literally. But his life is in Arizona, and hers in Tennessee. They both yearn for love, but a series of misunderstandings puts an end to their dreams. How can they reach their happily-ever-after with 1,600 miles between them?

Erin's Website

Free preview

Purchase Kindle Edition

Purchase Paperback Edition

Interview with Kim McMahill

Recently, I interviewed Kim McMahill.

Which of your books was your favorite to write? Why?

Big Horn Storm was probably the most fun to write because it’s set in the state where I grew up, Wyoming. I was able to draw upon my experiences from that time riding horses, greatly exaggerated of course, to create a contemporary western romantic adventure. There are several scenes which still make me hold my breath every time I read them and I couldn’t have written them without my own fearless palomino.

Which of your characters was/is your favorite? Why?

I’ll always love Niki from Big Horn Storm. Despite a pretty humble childhood she has made the best of life and is fiercely loyal to those she loves. She’s a survivor and never backs down.

What is your favorite theme to write about?

I’ve written nine very different novels, but the common theme is adventure suspense with a dash of romance woven in. There is no greater motivator to test one’s limit than love.  My goal is to take readers on an action-packed adventure to some amazing places. I want to entertain, first and foremost, but also inspire others to explore.

What are your hobbies (besides writing)?

I’m always anxious for spring because gardening is my passion. I also love to follow the exploits of my nieces and nephews which involves lots of sports, explore in the mountains, and travel about anywhere. When the weather keeps me indoors I enjoy reading and tackling tough jigsaw puzzles.

Blurb from A Dose of Danger (Book 1 in the Risky Research Series):

When researcher Grace Talbot and her team discover a possible solution for weight loss they are targeted by a group dedicated to controlling a diet product industry worth billions. Her unsanctioned testing methods bring tragedy to the family ranch and the attention of the local sheriff’s deputy. With her colleagues either dead, missing, or on the run she soon realizes she must trust the deputy with her life, but can she trust him with her heart?

Other Books by Kim McMahill:

Marked In Mexico

Big Horn Storm

Shrouded in Secrets

Deadly Exodus

A Taste of Tragedy (Book 2 in the Risky Research Series)

A Foundation of Fear (Book 3 in the Risky Research Series coming soon!)

You can find Kim at https://www.facebook.com/KimMcMahillAuthor/, on twitter at https://twitter.com/kimmcmahll, or visit her at http://KimMcMahill.blogspot.com

Interview with Theresa Hall

Recently, I interviewed Theresa Hall. 

What made you decide to become a writer?

I think I always enjoyed writing, even as a child. It wasn’t until I quit teaching to be a stay-at-home mom with my oldest son that I decided to write my first book. Of course, it was rejected, but the editor gave me some very encouraging comments. I think her words validated that I was actually a writer.

What advice do you have for aspiring writers?

Never give up. I know that sounds like some cliché advice, but writers are so hard themselves. Another important piece of advice would be to be careful of the advice you take. Learn to have discernment when it comes to criticism.  Surround yourself with people who truly route for you and want to help you succeed. Also, never feel like you know everything you need to know about writing. Always study your craft and keep learning.

What is your favorite Bible verse? Why?

Philippians 4:13  I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. 

This verse is hanging in my office. In every trial I’ve been through, this verse reminds me that Christ is my strength. As an author with an autoimmune disease, this verse keeps me going when I feel like I’m getting overwhelmed.

What do you enjoy most about writing books?

I love getting to know my characters and seeing their journey unfold. I’m mostly a plot-driven author so I get an idea first and then develop the characters around it.

www.TheresaLynnHall.com

www.twitter.com/TheresaLynnHall

www.Facebook.com/TheresaLynnHall

www.Pinterest.com/TheresaLynnHall

Interview with Tanya Stowe

This week, I interviewed author Tanya Stowe.

On your blog you mention, “Have motorhome will travel.” Where have you traveled thus far?

We just retired a little over a year ago so we haven’t been far. Last summer we planned a trip from California to Florida. It was going to be a nice leisurely drive but my husband needed surgery. They scheduled it for August so we ended up driving home with the motorhome in one week. Long daily drives. Not much fun. But we saw lots of amazing country and before that, we flew our granddaughter out for a graduation present and went to Disney World in the middle of July. I thought I’d be miserable since I have an aversion to bugs, humidity and alligators but I loved it. Florida is beautiful. It rained every day. The clouds were so close to the ground it felt like you could touch them. And the lightning! I had no idea Florida was the lightning capital of the U.S. Our return trip was rushed but I have every intention of going back through the Gulf States at a much slower pace and enjoying those areas as much as I did Florida.

But I have to say our most interesting trip last year wasn’t in the motorhome. We had an opportunity to tour China and we jumped on it. The best impulsive idea we’ve had in a long time! China is fascinating. I’ll be blogging about it for many months to come.

You’re a multi-published author. Which book has been your favorite to write?

Every book is your baby so it's hard to pick just one. But I have to say the one that was the most fun to write was Santa Fe Sunrise…simply because I love everything about Santa Fe. The scenery. The history. The food and clothes. Even the music. I’d put on my Nouveau Flamenco tunes by Ottmar Liebert and start typing. That book just seemed to flow. It might not be my best book or the most compelling but it was fun to write.

Did you always want to be a writer?

I wrote my first book when I was eleven years old. It was about a princess named Shalimar set in Ancient Egypt. So yes, I’ve always wanted to write. And it’s interesting to note that my first published book was a time travel romance about…you guessed it…an ancient Egyptian slave girl named Mara caught in a plot to murder the Pharaoh.

You have a large family. How do you find a good balance between family and writing? 

What is balance? Is there really such a thing? Lol. I think balance is a lot like a faith walk. You stumble and fall. Get back up and start again. It’s the getting up that’s important not the state of being “balanced.”

Having said that, I will tell you I’m a list maker. Always have been. Lately I’ve found a planner that incorporates all aspects of my life, work, relationships, faith, chores, appointments. It even has a scripture passage for each week. I sit down on a Sunday night, name all of my goals and tasks for the week then plug them into a daily calendar. I find that if I get busy and drop the ball, it’s on the planner and I can pick it up the next day or the next week. Things I need to do don’t disappear into the ether, especially those important writing or PR goals I need to meet. I also find that my daily to-do list that seems overwhelming in my head isn’t such a monster when it’s down on the page.

Tanya's latest release, Mojave Rescue (Love Inspired Suspense), is available on Amazon. 

Interview With Author Carole Brown

 

 

What made you decide to start writing?

I didn’t decide. I can’t remember a time I didn’t write. From grade school up, I’ve always loved writing. It’s so much a part of me, I can’t imagine life without it. In my own mind, I think: Carole, and the image:  “writer/author”  pops up.

I worked hard to support my husband throughout our sons’ younger years, but once grown, I knew it was MY time. I needed to pursue writing--not as a hobby any longer--but as a creative job. Thankfully, I’ve had the support of my husband and family.

What advice would you give to aspiring writers?

 

Follow God’s leading. He really does know the direction we should take that will be the best and give us the most peace and happiness!

 

Pursue your dreams. I’m a big believer in this. I hate to see people working at jobs they dislike immensely (although I also understand it’s necessary sometimes).

 

Find YOUR writing journey and be true to it. Every writer has their own path to tread and that’s the one they should walk upon. My journey may not be yours, but it’s MINE.

 

Never give up. Enough said!

 

 

 

What does your writing schedule look like?

I never run out of ideas, so it’s usually pretty hectic. I always have more than one story going at a time and spend time alternating between them unless I’m on a deadline.

Now that I’m published, I find marketing takes a lot of my time (but I love it!), so have to be really disciplined to write. Unlike some writers, I find my best novel writing time is either late morning or afternoons.

By evening, my mind is too tired to novel-write, but I can work on extra writing activities: interviews, articles, or just spending time with my husband and family. I strive for at least 1000 words a day, but that doesn’t always happen.

 

Tell me about your latest release? What are the major themes?

 

For Tyrell Walker, God is in control. No matter what disappointments from your parents or from your own choices life hands you, if we wait and trust, God will direct our paths.

For Emma Jaine Rayner, patience and tolerance is a biggie. She is so impatient with her sisters’ choices and desires that she can be a little overbearing. If only they would listen! But God has an individual plan for each of us. Our choices for the other person may NOT be what God has planned.

 

Who is your favorite character in the story and why?

Since I love ALL the characters in this book, it’s hard to pick one. I’ll take a stab at it though.

Gertrude (Gertie to her friends) is an elderly, well dressed boarder in the Rayner Boarding home. She’s garrulous and smart and funny. Loyal to those she cares about but condescending to those she considers self-dramatists, she’s usually decked out in the best clothes and an overload of jewelry.

 

 Here’s a bit from With Music in Their Hearts, chapter 5:

            “I never get too friendly with strangers. But since you are going to be my neighbor—so to speak—you may call me Gertrude. Gertie to my friends, Reverend.”

“I’m Tyrell, ma’am.”

“Why haven’t you enlisted, Tyrell? A big, strong man like you.”

(Brusque and a little nosy.)

A little bit farther on:

Gertrude Hanover snorted, and in a voice calculated to reach its desired object, lashed out, “Shameless. Absolutely shameless, that one. She’s after anything in pants.”

“Nosy old witch.” Bette leaned forward to glare around Jerry, who separated her from Gertrude.

“Truth’s the truth, my dear.” Gertrude sniffed.

(A little intolerant of those individuals who constantly need drama.)

And one more example from a later Chapter:

The older lady’s eyes glittered, begging to be part of the excitement. “What decent girl is going to want him? I’d bet on another sleazy man. Want me to follow him?”

            “Absolutely not.” Tyrell gripped her hand. “Promise me, Miss Gertie, you won’t do anything foolish.”

“Of course not, Tyrell. Do you think I want to get killed?”

Tyrell’s blood chilled but he patted her hand.

“Now, listen, there’s more. Twice he’s come home in the middle of the day. Doesn’t stay long. Slips in, slips out. Doubt if anyone else in the house hears him.” She peered at him, and Tyrell was sure her tongue was in her cheek.

“What were you doing in Hank’s room a few days ago? Saw you opening his locked door, slick as a real burglar. Saved your bacon, didn’t I, calling Hank to hang a picture for me? Didn’t need him. Jonah Mason always does my handy work and does very well. But wanted to give you time to make your get-away. The movie characters always talk savvy, don’t they?”

So she had seen him entering Hank’s room. “Uh . . .”

            “Don’t answer. I’m sure you have your reasons. Never could abide Dawson. Emma Jaine should have more sense than to allow the likes of him into this house.” She sniffed. “Mark my words, she’ll rue the day she let him rent here.”

(Caring and helpful with those she cares about, eager to please within limits)

 

How do you like to spend your time when not writing?

First and foremost: family. Having two sons I love and now, three grandsons means family time is more important than ever. We’ve always spent a lot of time with our boys--reading, visiting and vacationing in interesting areas, devotional fun time, etc. That’s carrying on into our grandparent stage!

My husband and I enjoy traveling. Seeing and experiencing new areas and walks of life keeps life interesting and varied. We have a small hobby farm where we live quietly enjoying our hot tub, walks, garden pond, flowers, pets, a small vegetable garden and projects that go along with owning property.

 

How can readers contact you and/or learn more about you and your writing?

Here is my bio and contact information. I love to interact with old and new friends!

Brown not only has her award winning (RWA International Digital Awards Contest 2^nd place in Inspirational, Laurel Award finalist, Selah finalist; Genesis semi-finalist) debut novel, The Redemption of Caralynne Hayman, available for purchase now, but a companion book called West Virginia Scrapbook: From the Life of Caralynne Hayman, filled with tidbits of information about West Virginia, quotes, recipes from West Virginia and from Caralynne’s life, pictures and discussion questions for the novel.

November, 2013, the first book in her mystery series, Hog Insane, released. It’s a fun, lighthearted novel introducing the characters, Denton and Alex Davies. Look for the second book, Bat Crazy, late winter.

Releasing November, 2014, is the first book in a new WWII romantic suspense series: With Music In Their Hearts. Three red-headed sisters. Three spies. Three stories.

Besides being a member and active participant of many writing groups, Carole Brown enjoys mentoring beginning writers. She loves to weave suspense and tough topics into her books, along with a touch of romance and whimsy, and is always on the lookout for outstanding titles and catchy ideas. She and her husband reside in SE Ohio but have ministered and counseled nationally and internationally. Together, they enjoy their grandsons, traveling, gardening, good food, the simple life, and did she mention their grandsons?

 

Connect with her here:

Personal blog: http://sunnebnkwrtr.blogspot.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CaroleBrown.author

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/browncarole212

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/sunnywrtr/boards/

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/5237997-carole-brown

  

I also am part of several other blogs:

Stitches in Time:  http://stitchesthrutime.blogspot.com/

Barn Door Book Loft: http://www.barndoorbookloft.net/

 

 

With Music in Their Heart Blurb:

Angry at being rejected for military service, Minister Tyrell Walker accepts the call to serve as a civilian spy within his own country. Across the river from Cincinnati, Ohio, a spy working for a foreign country is stealing secret plans for newly developed ammunition to be used in the war. According to his FBI cousin, this spy favors pink stationery giving strong indications that a woman is involved.  

 

He’s instructed to obtain a room in the Rayner Boarding House run by the lovely, spunky red-haired Emma Jaine Rayner. Sparks of jealousy and love fly between them immediately even as they battle suspicions that one or the other is not on the up and up.  

 

While Tyrell searches for the murdering spy who reaches even into the boarding home, Emma Jaine struggles with an annoying renter, a worried father (who could be involved in this spy thing), and two younger sisters who are very different but just as strong willed as she is.

 

As Tyrell works to keep his double life a secret and locate the traitor, he refuses to believe that Emma Jaine could be involved even when he sees a red-haired woman in the arms of another man. Could the handsome and svelte banker who’s also determined to win Emma Jaine’s hand for marriage, be the dangerous man he’s looking for? Is the trouble-making renter who hassles Emma Jaine serving as a flunky? Worse, is Papa Rayner so worried about his finances and keeping his girls in the style they’re used to, that he’ll stoop to espionage?

 

Will their love survive the danger and personal issues that arise to hinder the path of true love?

 

With Music in Their Heart releases November 2014! Check out my personal links to keep in touch for availability! Then look for it on Amazon. Book Launch is scheduled for November 10 on Facebook.