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

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Interview with Kristen Joy Wilks

Recently I interviewed Kristen Joy Wilks.

If you had unlimited time and money, where would you travel? 

If I had unlimited time and money ... I would want to go to either Chichen Itza on the Yucatan peninsula in Mexico, the ruins of Nineveh in Mosul Iraq, or to Ireland for a long castle tour. The first two locations were researched for books and the last just sounds so fun. Way back in the day, my family came to the U.S. from Ireland so it would be special to see that area. 

How many books have you written? 

I have written twelve books, but only three of them are published with one more due to be published in June of this year. The first book that was published was my fourth manuscript. I learned a lot writing those first three and it showed in that fourth story. 

What is your favorite book of the Bible? 

As far as my favorite book of the Bible, I love the book of Job. When I set out to start reading the Bible as a girl, I asked my mom where to start and she said "Anywhere, but Job. What about John." I immediately rushed out to read the book of Job. It is a long and difficult book but holds such depth for times of hurt and confusion. Does God still care when everything is going wrong? The book of Job is actually in epic poem that addresses this question. Like Job, I have found comfort in the knowledge that God is creative and powerful, we do not know all of the story of what is going on around us, and that God does indeed love us. 

Trailer for Athens Ambuscade: https://youtu.be/8pxgdimJrNI 

Blurb for Athens Ambuscade: 

What happens when a strapped-for-cash bridal designer needs a stuffed animal...and fast? Up-and-coming bridal designer, Jacqueline Gianakos must fly a Montana taxidermist to Greece in order to stuff her Grandmother’s cat. If Chrysanthemum isn’t preserved within two days' time, Jacqueline will lose the home that was her childhood sanctuary. But will she survive the next 48 hours when the taxidermist ignores her pointed request and then shows up wearing flannel?

Other books By Kristen Joy Wilks:

Interview with Raquel Byrnes

Recently, I interviewed author Raquel Byrnes.

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

My current work in progress is always my favorite. I think it’s because I just go full bore committed to each story. I get enthralled by the setting or the magic or whatever and revel in the discovery process. I also always feel like I’m striving to hone my craft, so each new book is a chance to learn from what worked or didn’t in the previous story. That is something that keeps me motivated and interested.

What are your hobbies (besides writing)?

I love sky watching. I even throw heavenly happenings gatherings on my front lawn. Cuddled up in a blanket, sipping hot cocoa, and watching light streak across the sky is my favorite thing to do with my family and friends. But it does feed the reader in me that loves the unknown.

What is your favorite Bible verse? Why?

My favorite verse is Micah 6:8 because it’s pretty self-explanatory as to what kind of behavior expected of me. If I seek justice, that would take integrity and honesty. If I am to love mercy, then that would mean I give grace and have compassion and understand mistakes. And finally, If I were to walk humbly with my God, then that means He is first and foremost as is His plan for me. Overall that verse has resonated with me since my teens.

If you could travel to another period in time, which era would you choose?

Definitely the future. There’s something about the ‘what if’ factor of futuristic fiction or science fiction that just resonates with me so I would love to see what’s around the corner, figuratively. Did we embrace clean energy, are we at war, did we make it to another planet…? I would love to know.

What do you enjoy most about writing books?

My father once called me a professional daydreamer and I really like that. Bringing to life the adventures and characters parading around my head for others to enjoy or react to is so fulfilling to me. It reminds me a lot of cooking in terms of making something for people I care about. I truly love creating something and sharing it in the hopes that others get joy out of it too.

@raquelbyrnes: https://twitter.com/raquelbyrnes

Author Site: http://raquelbyrnes.com/

Amazon: The Tremblers

Review of In Too Deep

Review:

In the novel In Too Deep, Grace Stone, a safety-conscious young swim instructor butts heads with her new boss (Kye Campton), the director of a fledgling camp, as Kye wants to introduce extreme sporting activities, which Grace finds dangerous. But as financial struggles and sabotage threaten to close the camp, the unlikely duo must band together. The story had good pacing and likeable characters, plus the setting and plot were unique. The author did a good job of creating sufficient conflict to keep readers turning the pages. This book would appeal to adults who enjoy reading romantic suspense.  

Blurb:

Like an anchor wedged in the lake floor, Grace Stone's heart is submerged in the past. Drowning in guilt over the role she played in her father's and sister's deaths, Grace prays that launching her water survival program at Camp Moshe will properly honor their memory and enable her to move on. But success depends on Grace risking everything on the man hired to rebrand the Christian camp. Kye Campton's usual confidence wavers when his extreme sports campaign lands him in hot water with the cautious instructor and it becomes increasingly evident that Camp Moshe's fight for survival is against more than a declining economy. Will Kye be able to save the camp—and Grace—from a saboteur determined to close the camp at any cost?

About the Author:

Stacey Weeks is a novelist, writer, and painter of everything. She rotates between fiction and non-fiction work, loving the unique features of each. When not writing, she is usually painting or renovating something in her home. Visit www.staceyweeks.com for more information.

Interview with Stacey Weeks

Recently, I interviewed Stacey Weeks.

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

In Too Deep was my second book, and my favorite book to write.  I learned so much writing my first novel that by the time it was ready for publishing I was quite tired of the characters. In Too Deep came together faster than my third novel and felt easier (for lack of a better word). I’ve always loved the water and I expect part of the reason I love In Too Deep so much is because the story is set on the beach.  You can read the first two chapters for free on my website: https://staceyweeks.com/books/in-too-deep-fiction/

What advice do you have for aspiring writers?

I would tell them to be teachable. Eventually, someone will tell you that you’ve made a mistake. You’ll learn a new grammar rule or an old grammar rule and recognize the dozens of ways you’ve mishandled the English language. You can be embarrassed. You can get angry (at yourself). You can run and hide and vow never to publish again. Or, you can be teachable. You can hear, apply, learn, and grow. You can read more advice for authors on my website: https://staceyweeks.com/category/for-writers/

What is your favorite Bible verse? Why?

1 Corinthians 10:31, “Whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” This verse has become my life verse because it reminds of why I write, why I serve in our church, why I parent with such purpose, and why I remain committed to furthering my study of Scripture. Whatever I do, whatever opportunities God has given me, I am to pursue them for the glory of God. All that matters in the end is if the Lord is pleased with my service for Him.

How many books have you written?

I’ve written five books, two novels that are published, The Builder’s Reluctant Bride (2016) and In Too Deep (2017), my third novel, Lethal Legacy, is currently under consideration by my publisher, and I have authored two non-fiction books, Glorious Surrender (2017) and a photo driven devotional Unexpected Love (2016).

The Builder’s Reluctant Bride was named Best Christian Romance at the 2017 Word Awards. Glorious Surrender won the 2016 Women’s Journey of Faith award. Unexpected Love was a finalist in the 2017 Word Awards. In Too Deep has been entered into the 2018 Word Awards.

If you had unlimited funds and free time, where would you choose to travel?

I probably wouldn’t travel. I would love to attend a seminary class on studying and teaching Scripture. I’ve taken online classes and really enjoyed them, but I would really love the feedback a professor or classmates would provide.

What do you enjoy most about writing books?

I love how it allows me to freely express myself and work through personal issues. It lets me experience things I would never consider without the excuse of book research. I love brainstorming with other writers. It is so much fun to plan a friend’s book because I can let my imagination run wild and carry none of the responsibility of pulling the story together.

Website: www.staceyweeks.com - I post weekly devotionals and regular home renovation projects.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/writerSWeeks - This is where I post questions and collect feedback for projects.

Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/cZgDb9  The newsletter is emailed once every spring, summer, fall, and winter and is full of information, deals, and opportunities available only to subscribers.

Twitter: @WriterSWeeks 

Review of Deadly Doll by Brooke Cox

Review:

Deadly Doll by Brooke Cox is a fun read. The story is set in the ‘80s and involves two teenage girl cousins attempting to solve a mystery related to a doll given to one of them. Born in ’77, I appreciate the ‘80s references.

The author does a good job with character development and wrapping up all subplots at the end of the story. Also, she does a good job of presenting a Christian message that flows naturally throughout the story and doesn’t feel forced.

This book should appeal to readers who enjoy mystery and suspense, as well as those who enjoy ’80s nostalgia. 

Author bio: 

My name is Brooke Cox and the one thing that I have never inspired to be is normal.  Normal is a setting used for appliances.  I loved being quirky (fun while being different) and creative.  In fact, Deadly Doll came from my desire to reach out to others who don’t quite fit in with everybody else.

Also, I wanted to write a mystery.  I thought of my great grandfather.  He really did work in Alaska from the early 30s to the mid 50s.  And he really did send a handmade Alaskan doll back to my mother when she was a small child.  She still has it and it’s on the cover.  That story always fascinated me and I wondered, “What if…”

Deadly Doll was a 2016 Selah Finalist for Debut Novel.  And it also made the Inspy 2016 Mystery/Thriller Longlist. 

Blurb:

Adventurous twelve-year old Brooksie discovered a hidden room in her grandparent’s attic. She opened up an old hat box and found her mother’s favorite childhood doll wrapped up inside. Brooksie’s great-grandfather sent it from Alaska and it was believed to have burned in the trash pile years ago. After showing it to her father, he takes it from her. A few days later he was murdered and the doll becomes a faded memory until it reappeared six years later after a freak accident. What was it about the doll that people kept hiding it? Could finding the doll have played a part in her dad’s murder? If the doll had remained hidden would he still be alive? Brooksie and her best friend Darlene delve deep into the doll mystery which has them learning about a past that Brooksie never knew existed. Along the way, Brooksie’s thirst for adventure and acceptance has the girls stumbling on the edge of danger. What shocking family secrets might she find and could they change her life? Will she finally understand why God made her so different from the rest of her family and will it draw her closer to Him? Can Brooksie finally accept who she is?

www.amazon.com/Deadly-Doll-Brooke-Cox

Review of An Unexpected Legacy by Amy Anguish

Review:

In An Unexpected Legacy, an intriguing tale by Amy Anguish and set in Texas and Arkansas, Jessica Garcia and Chad Manning are drawn to each other, but a family secret threatens to keep them apart. Thus, the main characters are forced to unravel this mystery before moving forward in their relationship. Along the way, the novel delves into the topic of forgiveness. I liked this because the topic wasn't just glossed over; the author demonstrated how an unforgiving spirit can harm others, including the person who chooses not to forgive. This book should appeal to readers of Christian fiction who enjoy romance and mystery.*

Author Bio:

Amy Anguish grew up a preacher's kid, and in spite of having lived in seven different states that are all south of the Mason Dixon line, she is not a football fan. Currently, she resides in Tennessee with her husband, daughter, and son, and usually a cat or two. Amy graduated with a degree in English from Freed-Hardeman University and hopes in all her creative endeavors to glorify God, but especially in her writing. She wants her stories to show that while Christians face real struggles, it can still work out for good.

*I received a copy of this book from the author and this is my voluntary review.

Interview with Amy Anguish

What was life like as a preacher’s kid?  

In some ways, being a preacher's kid is hard. A lot of people expect you to be perfect or to know all there is about the Bible. For us, the hardest part was probably that I never lived anywhere longer than six years (still haven't, honestly). As a kid, it's hard to have to leave your friends behind and pack up and move somewhere new every few years. But now, looking back, I can see that it helped me in a lot of ways. I am able to adjust to things like that easier (for the most part), I can make friends or figure out new situations more quickly now, and I have tons of friends all over the country that I made through the years. Being a preacher's kid didn't necessarily give me a strong faith, but it gave me a great foundation to build one.

I noticed that you have lived in several states, so I am curious. In which states have you lived? 

I have lived in Kansas, Oklahoma, Missouri, Mississippi, Arkansas, Tennessee, and Texas.

What authors have influenced your writing style?

I am an avid reader (almost 70 books this year alone, if you don't count the children's books I read to my children). I read so many authors that I like to think a lot of them have merged into my style. I guess of my favorites, my style is probably most like Christine Lynxwiler or Annalissa Daughety, although everyone has their own quirks and ways of phrasing things.

What advice do you have for aspiring writers?

My advice is to not give up. Even when it seems like you're never going to get published, keep trying. It only takes one person to notice your talent and fall in love with your story to make it turn from a dream to reality. My second piece of advice is to make sure you've edited your manuscript as much as possible and then edit it again. Most publishers aren't going to want to see a manuscript that needs tons of work. They want to see that you're serious enough about pursuing publication that you're willing to make sure your work is as perfect as you can get it before sending it out.

Tell me more about An Unexpected Legacy. How long did it take you to write the story?

"An Unexpected Legacy" started as a Nanowrimo novel in 2011, believe it or not. It was around 52,000 words when I first wrote it, and very rough. I started only with the idea that Jessica and Chad would meet at a smoothie shop and that would be their common interest that helped them fall in love. I knew that there was going to be something in their family history that was going to cause problems for their relationship ... that their family would be from the same town. But it took me almost the whole book before I figured out exactly what the actual reason for the conflict was. I started writing and meant to only write from Jessica's perspective, but as I continued, I realized I needed some back story (not to mention more words if I was going to meet my 50K word goal for that November) so I started including the historical scenes to tell "the rest of the story." I did a quick edit and then sort of let the story sit for a while. When I started really considering publication seriously, I sent my manuscript to a friend I had who was an acquisitions editor at a newer company. That company wasn't right for my story, but she remembered it and loved it, and years later, when she decided to start her own publishing company, she contacted me about it. She helped me polish it up, teaching me more about the craft and what I needed to do in the future, and we finally had it in print and ebook this last November. It's been a crazy journey, but one that was full of learning and growth for me. And the culmination has definitely been the icing on the cake. I can't wait to start my next journey with one of my other manuscripts just waiting to go out into the world!

Please join us next week, on the 13th, when I share a review of Amy's book.