HIS HOLIDAY PRAYER by Tina Radcliffe, Interview and Reviews, Hosted by Trixi and Nicole #ReleaseDay #Giveaway

INTERVIEW!

TRIXI: Tell me how the Rainbolt's came to be? Was there something in particular that sparked this series?

TINA: Love Inspired readers love westerns, and I love cowboys. That part was easy. I also love Oklahoma. Rebel Ranch, and especially the word rebel, reflects the Rainbolts. I wanted to write about an entire family of outliers. A generation who literally started life on the wrong side of the tracks. A family held together by love and their faith. The Rainbolts had built-in conflict from book one, which made writing the series both fun and difficult because there were many psychological issues to deal with. Telling each story in the series authentically was challenging.

TRIXI: Let's talk research, what kind did you have to do for "His Holiday Prayer" or the series in general?

TINA: The most time-consuming part of beginning any series is finding a location for the town, naming the town, and then laying out the entire town map. For the Hearts of Oklahoma series, I wanted to stay in Osage County, where the last series (Big Oak Ranch) was set, but closer to the water. So I moved south near Keystone Lake.

Author Tracy Letts wrote a Pulitzer Prize-winning play called August: Osage County (which became a movie), and because of that play, I’ve always been fascinated by the area. I lived 17 years in the city of Tulsa in Tulsa County. Osage is the largest county in Oklahoma and is larger than the states of Delaware and Rhode Island. Living in Tulsa suburbs is so different from life in the small Osage County towns of Hominy, Prue or even Pawhuska. The goal was to plant my characters deep in that country life, and the fictitious town of Rebel, Oklahoma, did that.

Also, as a side note, my local vet is mentioned in the acknowledgements of His Holiday Prayer. He answered a few doggie questions and questions about vet practices in general. Thank you, Doc!

TRIXI:  Did Tucker or Jena surprise you in any way? I know some authors say their characters do and I always find it funny as a reader. :-) 

TINA: I had no idea that Jenna was so phobic about crowds when I started book 3. In book 2, she was shy. It wasn’t until I was half-way through writing His Holiday Prayer that Jena told me. She said, “Whoa! I can’t do that.” I had to go back and rework several scenes to reflect her social anxiety.

TRIXI: Finally, what do you hope your readers take away from your stories?

TINA: I want readers to always remember that our God is a God of second chances. There is nothing we can do to separate us from God’s love. That is one of the primary themes that always run through my stories.

TRIXI'S REVIEW:

Oh my goodness, I love these Rainbolt men! I've gotten to know each one in the “Hearts of Oklahoma” series. Their family has had their share of tragedy, but through the grace of God, it has made them stronger as they've pulled together.

 

This is Tucker's story and I've been eagerly waiting to learn more about him. He's not only a widower but a single dad of two twin girls who are the delight of his life. He's also co-owner of Rebel Vet and Rescue with long-time best friend Jena Harper. When an opportunity of a lifetime comes up to move to Texas, he eagerly takes it. Leaving Jena behind doesn't sound all that appealing when his feelings for her begin to change.

 

Jena has always been in the background as a natural introvert and silent partner in the Vet clinic. But when she learns Tucker is leaving for his dream job, she steps up to try to save the business they started from the ground up. Stepping out of her comfort zone isn't easy, especially when she finds she's also falling for her best friend and business partner. 

 

One of my favorite tropes is a good friends-to-more love story. I think Tina Radcliffe did an exceptional job of showing how a friendship can make for a solid relationship, and how faith in God can shape those relationships. As each layer of Tucker and Jena were revealed, my heart went out for all the things they endured in their past. I also celebrated what they learned through them and how it shaped the people they are today. Faith played a central role in their lives; I enjoyed seeing how their reliance on the Lord guided them in life. I also enjoyed watching them fall in love in spite of their reluctance to!

 

This is a heartwarming Christmas story centered around strong family bonds, a deep abiding friendship, and a love that lasts through the bumps of life. I also enjoyed revisiting the Rainbolt family members, they were just as much a part of this story. If you make a Christmas reading TBR list, I highly recommend putting “His Holiday Prayer” on it, as well as the rest of the “Hearts of Oklahoma” series. I think you'll fall in love with the Rainbolt family like I did!

*I received a complimentary copy from the author and was not obligated to leave a favorable review. All opinions are my own. *

NICOLE'S REVIEW:

His Holiday Prayer, the third book in Tina Radcliffe’s Hearts of Oklahoma series, is a delightful tale of best friends, second chances, and unconditional love. Tina Radcliffe is my favorite Love Inspired romance author, and His Holiday Prayer is the perfect book for this Christmas season. If you have not read any of Tina Radcliffe’s books yet, I highly recommend adding His Holiday Prayer (and the entire Hearts of Oklahoma series) to your to-be-read list! You won’t be disappointed!

Handsome cowboys and the small-town charm of Rebel, Oklahoma will draw readers into this wonderful series. I love the close-knit Rainbolt family and how they are all featured throughout each book in the series. Although the charming and handsome Reece Rainbolt will always be my favorite Rainbolt brother, Tucker Rainbolt is also a fantastic hero in his own right.

 

As a co-owners of Rebel Vet and Rescue, best friends Tucker Rainbolt and Jena Harper’s partnership and opportunity for romance could be in jeopardy as Tucker receives an appealing out-of-state job offer. Take a trip back to Rebel, Okahoma in this highly recommended inspirational contemporary romance.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.

Inkwell Faith Content Rating – 2 (light) 

 

ENTER THE RAFFLECOPTER GIVEAWAY BELOW

SEE KIM and WINNIE's REVIEWS!

BackCover Blurb:
A new beginning could be closer than he thinks.
What he wants for Christmas…
may not be what he needs.

After receiving an unexpected job offer in Texas, widower Tucker Rainbolt decides he and his twins need a fresh start. But moving on means leaving his best friend, Jena Harper, and their vet clinic behind. For the first time, Tucker sees Jena as more than a buddy. What if leaving isn’t the answer? Maybe what he’s been missing has been right beside him the whole time…

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Tina Radcliffe has been dreaming and scribbling for years. Originally from Western NY, she left home for a tour of duty with the Army Security Agency stationed in Augsburg, Germany, and ended up in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Her past careers include Certified Oncology R.N. and library cataloger.

 

Author Links
Website- https://www.tinaradcliffe.com/
Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/tinaradcliffeauthor/
Twitter- https://twitter.com/TMRadcliffe
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/tinaradcliffe/
Bookbub- http://bit.ly/2HfwIfy

 

Tina is a two-time RWA Golden Heart finalist and a four-time Carol Award finalist and three-time ACFW Mentor of the Year finalist. A 2014 ACFW Carol Award winner and a 2018 ACFW Mentor of the Year winner, Tina is also on the RWA and ACFW Honor Roll of Best-Selling Authors. In 2019 she won the Holt Medallion for Christmas with the Cowboy. A short story writer, she has sold over three dozen short stories to Woman's World Magazine

 

She currently resides in Arizona where she writes fun, heartwarming romance.

Harlequin Love Inspired, December 2020

Available in digital ebook, paperback, mass market paperback:

Buy His Holiday Prayer at Amazon

Buy His Holiday Prayer at Christianbook.com

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#GIVEAWAY of ONE HUNDRED VALLEYS by Bonnie Leon, #INTERVIEW with Review by Paula Shreckhise

Author Bonnie Leon

Paula welcomes Author Bonnie Leon for an interview AND Bonnie graciously offered a #GIVEAWAY!
See Paula's review below and find out how to win ONE HUNDRED VALLEYS! 

Paula: Was it easy to get back into writing after your absence?

Bonnie: It was difficult. After discovering I am losing my vision I decided to retire, and then both my sister and my mother died within a six week span. I lingered for a long while in my grief.

When I decided it was time to get back to work (because I could still see, kind of) I had to shake off my grief, at least during my working hours. Some of what Emmalin suffered in the book was similar to my personal experience, and walking through her journey was cathartic for me.

Although I’ve been writing for many years getting back into a daily rhythm was a surprising challenge. I’m still working on it but gaining ground.

I am grateful to be writing again. It’s good for my soul. My life is richer and more meaningful when I’m writing.

Paula: Where did the idea for your new setting come from?

Bonnie: I’d like to say that I had a compelling reason for choosing Southern Oregon, but that’s not true. I’ve lived in the Umpqua Valley region for forty years and have never written about it, and I decided it was time. The depth of the story came as I developed the plot and the characters. Discovering what the book would say continued into final edits.
 
Paula: So, you've been to the area of Oregon where your town of Deer Creek is!

Bonnie: Yes. I’ve lived in the Land of One Hundred Valleys for forty years. The present town of Roseburg was originally called Deer Creek, the setting for my story. I love Southern Oregon and would never want to live anywhere else. Even after all of these years I am still moved by the beauty—deep valleys, rolling hills, forests and mountains, wild rivers—it’s magnificent. And I get to live in the midst of it all. For me, there is no better place. 
 
Paula: What surprised you most about Emmalin?

Bonnie: I was disappointed in her attitude toward the natives. She had no factual concept about who they were. She trusted in newspaper reports, books, and conversations among people who knew little more than she did. And for a long while she was inflexible in her beliefs. But Emmalin wasn’t hard-hearted and in time she came to understand what was true about the Umpqua Indians.

Paula: The cover of One Hundred Valleys is stunning. How much input did you have in its creation?

Bonnie: I love the cover. WhiteFire Publishing allowed me a great deal of input. They are very easy to work with.

When Roseanna White began developing the cover, she asked if I had anything that would be of help. I sent off photos of the main characters as well as pictures I’d taken of the beautiful countryside here in Oregon, and the North Umpqua River. Roseanna’s first draft of the cover was stunning, but I was still able to offer insight into what Emmalin might have been wearing and some of the cover background. At each phase Roseanna asked for my opinions and ideas. When we had what we thought were acceptable cover options, I held a contest on my Facebook author page. We received a great deal of insight and ideas from my followers, and we paid attention.

In the end, even with all the input, the gorgeous presentation of my book is about Roseanna. She’s the one who pulled it all together.

Paula: What are you planning for your next book?

Bonnie: I have a contemporary romance in the works, but when I’d finished writing One Hundred Valleys I didn’t feel finished with the story. I want to spend more time with Enmalin and Jacob and see what happens to them. And I love the community of Deer Creek and would truly enjoy spending more time there. I am considering writing a sequel.

Paula: Great news! How has the present pandemic affected your publishing life?

Bonnie: It has made launching my book more difficult. It’s been hard to stay focused. My mind wanders often to the darkness of the world. I will be thankful when Covid 19 has run its course. In the meantime I pray a lot.

I had to cancel a book signing scheduled in Roseburg, which was a huge disappointment. Because the book is local it would have been great fun to celebrate with hometown readers. I’ve had a difficult time getting signed copies to readers in my community, but have had some success.

However, I don’t think the consequences are all bad. I suspect more people are reading during this pandemic, and I hope some of those readers will pick up my book and discover the harshness and beauty of wilderness life in the Oregon Territory of 1855. 

Paula: Thank you so much for being our guest, Bonnie!

Visit Bonnie at her website, or Facebook Author Page

PAULA'S REVIEW:
From the stunning cover of One Hundred Valleys, to the picturesque settings, you will be captured by the story of wealthy Emmalin Hammond as she makes her arduous journey to remote Deer Creek, Oregon in 1855. Emmalin sets out to find her estranged father but doesn’t know what to expect when she arrives. Can she trust Jacob Landon, the rough, backwoods guide who leads her to her destination?

Emmalin has an immature faith but it grows in spite of the hardships that confound her. In Deer Creek, she gets to know her father and makes a friend in Margaret a widow and owner of a cafe, who becomes her mentor. As they talk of tragedies that have befallen Emmalin, Margaret counsels: “God didn’t promise to protect us from all harm, but he did promise to walk with us as we struggle in the hard times and to help lead us through life. When it feels the darkest is when His light shines its brightest. And He uses every bit of the good and bad times to mold us into people who will honor Him.”

After much soul searching, Emmalin finally realizes where she belongs and “that what the enemy meant for evil, God always intended for good.”

For a story of reconciliation and finding your worth in God, be sure to pick up a copy of this book.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author through WhiteFire Publishing. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*

BackCover Blurb:
After the death of her mother, Emmalin Hammond discovers she is not the heiress she’d always assumed she’d be. The revelation exposes her fiancé’s true intentions when he withdraws his marriage proposal, leaving Emmalin heartbroken and humiliated. When she discovers the father she believed to be dead is still alive and living in the Oregon Territory she decides it is time to meet the man who has been hidden from her all of her life.

Accompanied by her Uncle Jonathon, she sets out for the Oregon Territory in search of answers and hoping for a renewed relationship with her father. When tragedy strikes, she confronts the terrifying challenge of completing her quest alone. Faced with few options, she entrusts her life to a mountain man named Jacob Landon who agrees to transport her to a small settlement in Southern Oregon called Deer Creek, a place also known as the Land of One Hundred Valleys.

Emmalin is not prepared for the hardships of life in the Oregon wilderness. Each day presents a new challenge. Newfound friends, including the reserved Jacob Landon, who unexpectedly stirs her heart, come alongside to help her adapt. Yet she feels out of place. Should she brave the arduous journey back to Philadelphia for the life she once knew or remain and hope for something better in the Oregon wilderness?

Available in digital ebook and paperback:
Buy One Hundred Valleys at Amazon 


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Carrie Stuart Parks #Interview by Nicole Cook! Fragments of Fear

Author Carrie Stuart Parks

Nicole: I am delighted to have author Carrie Stuart Parks join us today at Inkwell Inspirations to discuss her latest suspense novel, Fragments of Fear, which was chosen as the December book club selection for the Avid Readers of Christian Fiction Facebook Group. Carrie Stuart Parks recently led a live Facebook chat in the Avid Readers Group to discuss her book with the members of the group. Carrie, thank you so much for joining us today!

Carrie: Thank you so very much for inviting me!

Nicole: I love reading suspense novels, and the back cover blurb of Fragments of Fear captured my attention immediately. I had heard so many great things about your books, so I was thrilled to finally get the opportunity to read one of them. For readers who have never read your books before, is there a certain book of yours that you recommend reading first?


Carrie: The first four, the Gwen Marcey series, could be read in order, but they are designed to stand alone as well. In order they would be:

-A Cry From the Dust
-The Bones Will Speak
-When Death Draws Near
-Portrait of Vengeance

The rest of the books are stand-alones.

Nicole: Fragments of Fear is an intriguing story filled with mystery, lots of action, and realistically flawed characters. What message or inspiration do you hope that people will get from reading Fragments of Fear?

Carrie: The main character—Tavish—grasps at any belief system (crystals, horoscope, meditation) and is a total neurotic mess. Through the story, with the help of a Bible verse on her Grandmother’s grave and a plucky dog, she learns where she should put her faith.

Nicole: I love being a member of the Avid Readers of Christian Fiction Facebook group and participating in so many wonderful discussions within the group. As a reader, I get to share my love of Christian fiction with the other members in the group, and I have discovered so many new-to-me authors who have become must-read authors. From an author’s perspective, what do you like best about participating in the Avid Readers of Christian Fiction Facebook Group, and what has been your favorite part of having Fragments of Fear as the book club selection this month?

Carrie: I'm fascinated by the discussions of my fellow writer's books--and thrilled that folks are reading and enjoying them. I told my publisher about this Facebook page and said how word-of-mouth talking about books helps readers to find just the right story they're looking for. I mean, where can you have someone ask for a recommendation for a book featuring Santa-turned-Amish ballet-dancer with a fatal disease that falls in love with a career female army pilot while flying to Texas? Boom, three people will mention just such books. I was over-the-moon thrilled when Fragments of Fear was selected and for a chance to talk about my faith, writing, career, and life. Love and blessings to all who participated!

Nicole: Can you share any information about your future releases and/or your current work in progress?

Carrie: Sneak peek back cover copy from Relative Silence:

There are dark closets in every powerful family’s mansion.

Fifteen years ago Piper Boone’s only child died in a boating accident, and Piper’s nearly perfect life came to an end too. After living through a divorce and losing her job, she retreats to Curlew Island and her childhood home—a secluded mansion for the politically powerful Boone family, who are practically American royalty.

But Piper’s desire to become a recluse is shattered when a mass shooter opens fire and kills three women at a café where Piper is having lunch. The crisis puts her family in the spotlight by dredging up rumors of the so-called Curlew Island Curse, which whispers say has taken the lives of several members of the Boone family, including Piper’s father and sister.

Forensic artist Tucker Landry also survives the shooting and is tasked with the job of sketching a portrait of the shooter with Piper. They forge a bond over their shared love of movies and tragic pasts. But when police discover a connection between the shooting and two more murders on Curlew Island, they face a more terrible lineup of suspects than they could have imagined: Piper’s family.

Unraveling the family’s true history will be the key to Piper’s survival—or her certain death.

Nicole: Wow, Relative Silence sounds like a fascinating novel. I love the sneak peek! I will definitely be adding it to my list of books to read in 2020. 
It seems hard to believe that we are starting a new decade already. Do you plan to make any New Year’s resolutions for 2020?

Carrie: I don’t know that I’d call what I do resolutions. More like goals. I’ll be finishing up my bucket list of becoming an AKC Great Pyrenees judge in January and finishing off the year by judging the Canadian National. Of course, I’ll have the next novel due in August, and Relative Silence will be released in July. Our schedule for forensic classes are up and I’ll be working on fine art and writing classes. My class reunion will be mid-summer. I’ll be speaking to a Sisters in Crime group in April as well as attending the National Great Pyrenees dog show — both in Virginia. It’s shaping up to be a busy year.

Nicole: Carrie, thank you again for joining us today! This has been a pleasure to chat with you!

Back Cover Blub of Fragments of Fear:
FBI-certified forensic artist Carrie Stuart Parks infuses her real-life expertise into her award-winning suspense novels.

Evelyn McTavish’s world came crashing down with the suicide of her fiancé. As she struggles to put her life back together and make a living from her art, she receives a call that her dog is about to be destroyed at the pound. Except she doesn’t own a dog. The shelter is adamant that the microchip embedded in the canine with her name and address makes it hers.

Evelyn recognizes the dog as one owned by archaeologist John Coyote because she was commissioned to draw the two of them. The simple solution is to return the dog to his owner—but she arrives only to discover John’s murdered body.

As Evelyn herself becomes a target, she crosses paths with undercover FBI agent Sawyer Price. The more he gets to know her, the more personally invested he becomes in keeping her safe. Together, they’re desperate to find the links between so many disparate pieces.

Stolen art. A New Mexico archaeological dig. An abandoned dog. And a secret that’s worth killing for. And the clock is ticking.

Author Bio:
Carrie Stuart Parks is a Christy winner as well as a multiple Carol and Inspy Award–winning author. She has won numerous awards for her fine art as well. An internationally known forensic artist, she travels with her husband, Rick, across the US and Canada teaching courses in forensic art to law-enforcement professionals. The author/illustrator of numerous books on drawing and painting, Carrie continues to create dramatic watercolors from her studio in the mountains of Idaho.

Author links:
http://www.carriestuartparks.com/
https://www.facebook.com/CarrieStuartParksAuthor/
https://twitter.com/carrieparks
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/carrie-stuart-parks




The Avid Readers of Christian Fiction Facebook Group is a wonderful discussion group for book enthusiasts to talk about what Christian fiction books they are reading. Participation in the group is the perfect way to discover many new Christian fiction authors and books. The group is comprised of numerous Christian fiction authors and readers and is very well moderated. Any readers or authors interested in joining the group can click on the following link and answer a few questions to be added. The questions are easy and are meant to keep out spammers. https://www.facebook.com/groups/AvidChristFicReaders/
The January book club selection for the Avid Readers of Christian Fiction is Above the Fold by Rachel Scott McDaniel.

LIVING LIES by Natalie Walters, Reviewed by Nicole Cook with INTERVIEW

Today Nicole hosts Author Natalie Walters!

Nicole: I am thrilled to have author Natalie Walters join us today at Inkwell Inspirations to discuss her debut novel, Living Lies (Book #1 in the Harbored Secrets series). Natalie, thank you so much for joining us today!
 
Natalie: Thank you for having me!
 
Nicole: Living Lies has characters in the storyline who deal with various mental health issues, such as depression, suicide, and PTSD. Even today, people are often afraid to discuss these issues openly in society due to the stigma regarding mental health. This book can be a great conversational starter for people to have the needed discussions. What message or inspiration do you hope that people will get from reading Living Lies?
 
Natalie: My biggest hope is that it will, in fact, start conversations. I want anyone who is struggling with mental health to know they are not alone. They are loved, supported, and are not defined by the disease.
 
Nicole: Where did you get your inspiration for your characters, and did you base their physical descriptions off of real-life people and/or celebrities? I always like hearing about if authors used specific photos or had specific people in mind as a basis for writing their character descriptions.

Natalie: I don’t normally use real-life people but I will sometimes draw the characteristics I see in people I know and add them to my characters to give them a layer of depth. I’m also a visual person so I try to find an image of someone that most closely resembles what I see in my mind for each character. Often times, this ends up with me using celebrities because their faces are all over the internet (LOL). Now, for Living Lies, I did end up using my grandparents as inspiration for a couple of the characters. Ms. Byrdie was inspired by grandmother who shares the same name. And Pops is loosely based off my paternal grandfather, who I also dedicated the story to.
 
Nicole: As you know, I absolutely love the character of Deputy Charlie Lynch from Living Lies. I think I’ve told you that numerous times already! Like Ms. Byrdie said, “Sometimes second chances come tall and in a uniform.” Without giving away any spoilers, what can you tell us about books 2 and 3 in the Harbored Secrets series, and does Charlie play a part in those two books?
 
Natalie: *Sigh* Charlie is so dreamy isn’t he? Oh, wait, you’ve already told me! J

Deadly Deceit (Harbored Secrets Book2) brings readers into the life of Deputy Ryan Frost as he investigates a case involving a tenacious reporter (readers might remember her), Vivian DeMarco and her dead boss. Charlie is basically Ryan’s best friend and but plays a brotherly/supportive role.
Silent Shadows (Harbored Secrets Book 3) invites readers one last time to Walton where they’ll meet a spunky nurse, Pecca Gallegos, who doesn’t just tackle her patient, Captain Colton Crawford’s physical’s struggles—she actually, physically tackles him! Charlie plays a role on the field and off the field in this final chapter of the series.
 
Nicole: I read primarily Christian fiction and love discovering new authors. As a member of the Avid Readers of Christian Fiction Facebook group, I have found so many new-to-me authors and my to-be-read list is always growing. Who are some of your favorite authors?
 
Natalie: Oh, goodness, this a tough question. I have so many. Okay, well off the top of my head here they are:

Bethany Turner writes the most hysterical romantic comedy stories! If you love your best friend, buy TWO copies of Bethany’s books and buddy read!!

Joanna Politano is amazing!! She has this poetic style of writing that reminds me so much of Charles Dickens. Getting lost in her books is one of my favorite things to do.

Jaime Jo Wright has this incredible talent to freak me out. Her split-time novels are mysterious and haunting but also beautiful.

Melissa Tagg is a must-buy author for me. The way she creates community makes me believe her characters actually exist somewhere in the world and I must find them.

Joel C. Rosenberg. There’s always that question what author do you wish you could sit down and have dinner with…this is the one. SO GOOD.

And because I always feel bad leaving people out, here’s my version of the really quick rolling credits of authors I HAVE to mention:

Becky Wade, Ronie Kendig, Kara Isaac, Nicole Deese, Randy Singer *and cue the music* Irene Hannon, Kristy Cambron…

Nicole: We have several favorite authors in common! I love Becky Wade, Jaime Jo Wright, and Melissa Tagg’s books too! I also recently discovered Bethany Turner’s books and you are right…she is hilarious!
 
I went to Hawaii on my honeymoon 10 years ago, and it was so beautiful there. That was the best trip of my life. I would love to move there someday, but I don’t think it will ever happen! How has your experience been living in Hawaii, and have you encountered any challenges during your writing process since you are away from the mainland and in a different time zone?

Natalie: Oh, I hope you get to at least come back for a visit!! I’ll take you to the best place to have shaved ice!!

My husband is from Hawaii, so I’m pretty fortunate that I get to visit here once a year but living here has been a whole new experience! I’m pretty sure winter lasted only a day when the temperatures dipped to 65 and I’m not joking when I say people here were freaking out!

I think the biggest challenge has been the time difference. When I wake up in the morning the day is already half way done on the East Coast. This makes me feel like I’m running behind, which I hate, and do math, which I also hate, to figure out what time it is somewhere for scheduling purposes. I guess it’s a small price to pay considering how beautiful it is here in Hawaii, which it definitely is! J

Nicole: Natalie, thank you again for joining us today! This has been so fun chatting with you. I can’t wait until November when Deadly Deceit releases.
 
Natalie: This was SO fun! Thank you for having me and for these fun questions!!
 
Author bio:
Natalie Walters is a military wife of 22 years and currently resides in Hawaii with her soldier husband and their three kids. She writes full-time and has been published in Proverbs 31 magazine and has blogged for Guideposts online. In addition to balancing life as a military spouse, mom, and writer, she loves connecting on social media, sharing her love of books, cooking, and traveling. Natalie comes from a long line of military and law enforcement veterans and is passionate about supporting them through volunteer work, races, and writing stories that affirm no one is defined by their past.

Author links:
Website
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram

NICOLE'S REVIEW:

“If there’s one thing I know about God - He’s a God of second chances. And sometimes second chances come tall and in a uniform.”

Natalie Walters takes readers on an incredibly emotional and thrilling ride in her debut novel. Living Lies immediately captures the readers’ interest and keeps them invested in the storyline throughout the entire novel. Readers are introduced to the handsome and charming former Marine Charlie Lynch, who just started a new job as a deputy in the town of Walton, Georgia. He is immediately thrust into a murder investigation when he encounters the distraught Lane Kent, who has just discovered the dead body of a young woman in the woods. The investigation takes many twists and turns, with Lane finding herself in extreme danger, while still dealing with the guilt regarding the death of her husband. Lane and Charlie find themselves attached to each other, but Lane worries that her mental health issues make her undeserving of love. Charlie’s Aunt Byrdie is an extraordinary source of inspiration and provides encouragement through love and faith to those around her, especially Lane and Charlie.

Natalie Walters portrays several difficult issues in a realistic and compassionate manner, such as suicide and attempted suicide, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. There is frequently a stigma in society regarding mental health issues, and people often do not feel comfortable discussing these issues out in the open. This book provides a wonderful opportunity for people to have the needed conversations regarding mental health issues. This is a story of second chances, forgiveness, and love. Readers will fall in love with the handsome Charlie Lynch and will eagerly anticipate the second book of the Harbored Secrets series which features Charlie’s co-worker Deputy Ryan Frost. Who doesn’t love a man in uniform?! Living Lies is highly recommended for fans of romantic suspense, and readers who enjoy novels by authors such as Lynette Eason, Lynn H. Blackburn, Elizabeth Goddard, and Rachel Dylan.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell Publishing and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.

Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover and audiobook:
Buy Living Lies at Amazon
Buy Living Lies at Christianbook.com

BackCover Blurb:
In the little town of Walton, Georgia, everybody knows your name--but no one knows your secret. At least that's what Lane Kent is counting on when she returns to her hometown with her five-year-old son. Dangerously depressed after the death of her husband, Lane is looking for hope. What she finds instead is a dead body.

Lane must work with Walton's newest deputy, Charlie Lynch, to uncover the truth behind the murder. But when that truth hits too close to home, she'll have to decide if saving the life of another is worth the cost of revealing her darkest secret.

Debut novelist Natalie Walters pulls you to the edge of your seat on the first page and keeps you there until the last in this riveting story that will have you believing no one is defined by their past.

Meet Book Blogger Sarah Barnhart of The Barefoot Reader

This month's interview is with Sarah, a book blogger I recently 'met' (online) and thought you'd all like to do so as well!

Deb asks: how long have you been reviewing and how did you decide on the theme for your blog?  

Sarah answers: I’ve been seriously reviewing for about a year and a half now, but didn’t start my blog until March of this year. Before that, I was just posting my reviews on Goodreads, Amazon, and my #bookstagram. I noticed as I continued to review and grow on social media, I started to get more opportunities to work with authors and publishers. I figured if I wanted to continue on this journey and grow even more as a reviewer, then I should start a blog. And now I have and couldn’t be happier! I love absolutely love it! 

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

As far as themes go, I’ve always loved the warmer and cozy types, so I knew that’s what I wanted for mine. I wanted my blog to feel cozy and I guess in a way, intimate: like sitting with a friend and enjoying a cup of coffee. J

Deb: Definitely! Some blogs just come across as more relaxing. But there's so much a blogger wants to put on that page! Hard choice!
What’s the best part of being a reviewer?  

Sarah: I’d have to say the best part of being a reviewer is that I get to read and share incredible stories that I really enjoyed or that have touched me in some way with fellow book lovers like me. I also get to help promote the author’s work and help spread the word. And you know, the fact that I usually get a free book doesn’t hurt either. ;) 

Deb: Free is good (until the TBR pile tumbles!) 
What’s the most difficult part of the ‘the job’?  

Sarah: For me, it’s reading the book and getting the review up in time if the publisher or author has given me a specific date. I’m pretty busy with classes, my day job, and volunteer work, so trying to manage all that plus writing reviews is kind of tough. I’ve had to say ‘no’ to quite a few different opportunities because of it. It just wouldn’t be fair to the author/publisher or myself if I said I could do something and then not follow through with it. Not only would I disappoint myself, but I would be letting them down, too.

D: Saying no can be difficult! Writing that review can't always be a fifteen minute effort. Sometimes the words just don't want to come "on demand"! 
What was the last book you read that you couldn’t put down?

S: The Life After series by Julie Hall! It’s a Young Adult Christian fantasy series and it’s amazing! I loved it so much that I binge read the whole series within a week! (Here's a link!)

D: Excellent Word of Mouth! What keeps you busy or entertained (beyond reading and reviewing!)? 

S: Hmmm…good question! My family definitely keeps me entertained! I usually go hiking with my sisters and my mom when I can. It’s something we’ve been doing for years now.

I also like to listen to music, watch my favorite musicals or Cary Grant and Katherine Hepburn movies, hang out with friends, go shopping at used bookstores, and snuggling my cat, Rascal. 

Deb's favorite!

D: And you didn't send along  a photo of Rascal! Oh dear!

What is your fiction favorite…setting? Place and time? Genre’?  

S: Don’t make me choose! There’s so many! This is a tough one. I’ll give you my top three genres: 1) Fantasy-Chronicles of Narnia type stuff. 2) Biblical Fiction-I love reading about the Kings of Israel and the disciples. 3) Contemporary Suspense/Mystery- Terri Blackstock and Irene Hannon are my go-to’s.

D: That's a great mix of genres! Wow! When I discovered Christian fiction, the suspense stories were my favorite, so I've definitely read my share of these.
What person from history would you most like to text with?  

S: Text with? Besides Jesus? I’d have to say King David, Katherine Hepburn, or George Washington.

Unlisted Number!

D: If you had a rainy afternoon alone to watch a movie what would it be? And what meal would you have delivered if that afternoon included a quiet evening as well? I’m paying with my virtual bank account!  

S: You’re paying? Well, okay then! Okay, so if it’s a rainy afternoon, then I’ll most likely be watching Pride and Prejudice (2005 Version) or some sort of musical (usually a classic or Disney-related). And then I’d order some Japanese curry! That stuff is delicious!   

Worth the time on so many levels. One of the best film scores ever!

D: If you could wiggle your nose and be in your dream career, what would it be? Or are you already living it?  

S: My dream career is to become an author, own my own orphanage (kind of like Tim Tebow) or have an organization where I can help orphans, and own my very own library. The author part is still in progress along with my non-profit organization, but as for the library…we’ll see. ;)

D: What piece of advice would you offer authors who are just starting out?  

S: Become better acquainted with social media and social media marketing. I love seeing authors on social media share what’s going on with their writing, sharing behind the scenes, updating readers on their books, sharing exclusives, interacting with their followers, and just being themselves! It helps us as readers to get to know you on a more personal level. And learning social media marketing will really boost your exposure and books, which is something you want!

D: (Deb makes face at those three words: social media marketing). Sighs. (and smiles!)
But ignore me and tell me what you'd say to new reviewers— 

S: Write honest and considerate reviews, even if you didn’t necessarily like the book. Don’t bad mouth the author, simply share what you didn’t like about the book and why. And if you have multiple books you have to review by a certain date, schedule your reading time. I’m speaking from personal experience. I was SUPER behind last year on reviews because I wasn’t being intentional about it, and because of that, a lot of my reviews were late. And learn to say no. If you’re like me, then you want to say yes to review as many books as you can! But the reality is, you can only do so much, so choose the books you KNOW you can review. The ones you want to review the most. Be honest with yourself and be considerate of other people’s time. 

D: Thanks so much for being my guest, Sarah. I wish you continued success and hope more readers head on over and follow your blog!

Blog: https://www.thebarefootreader.com

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/TheBarefootReader96

Meet Book Blogger Julia Wilson of Christian Bookaholic!

Debra says- 
I didn't know a lot about Julia before this interview because I've just begun to follow her blog this past year.  I hope you enjoy this as much as I did!
 

Thanks for joining me, Julia! How long have you been reviewing and how did you decide on the theme for your blog?

Julia says- 
I have been reviewing for... forever! I used to just do a quick few lines but over the years my reviews have changed. My love of reading has always been there as my Nanny used to read books to me when I was little.

My blog came about because I wanted to share my reviews. My son Michael set up my blog for me, because he is good at ICT and I am not. I chose my theme because I like pink and I think it looks pretty.

Julia  in Llandudno. With that Spelling, it had to be Wales!

D-What’s the best part of being a reviewer?

J-I get to read fabulous books and share them with the world. I believe that if we read a great book, we should publicise it. If we don't pass the word on, how will others know?

I get a lot of my books via Net Galley and also from the Book Gobbler but I also buy loads of books. I cannot help myself! Someone recommends a book and I have to get it! If it's part of a series, I buy the set!

D-Book Gobbler is new to me. Should we share that or is it a dangerous slope for other bookaholics?

What’s the most difficult part of the ‘the job’?

J-Remembering who needs what read and when! Thank goodness for my Net Galley shelf and also being able to schedule on my blog. Plus I use a calendar and a notebook!

D-What was the last book you read that you couldn’t put down?

J-The Key Of All Unknown by K.A. Hitchins. I read it in one sitting 2 days ago. By the time this interview goes out, there will probably be more books added to the list.

I am always tied between wanting to read on and finish a book and not wanting it to end! The read on and find out what happens next usually wins out!

(Okay so Deb had to grab the blurb for this book --so compelling!)

Brilliant scientific researcher Tilda Moss wakes up in hospital unable to speak or move and with no recollection of what happened to her. Determined to find answers and prove she is not in a persistent vegetative state, she travels back through her fractured memories looking for clues. Could someone really have tried to kill her? An indulged younger brother, an obsessive flatmate, jealous colleagues and a missing lover. Everyone has a motive. On the edge of death, and questioning the value of her life, Tilda's only hope is to unlock the key of all unknown

D-That sounds like the kind of book I'd want to start when I had two days of reading ahead of me!

What keeps you busy or entertained (beyond reading and reviewing!)

J-Doing the school run morning and night. Seriously though, I love knitting and tend to do that in an evening while watching the TV. I used to love walking far and fast but having M.E and fibromyalgia has stopped all that. I now do aqua aerobics twice a week for 45 minutes. I also learnt to swim last year and so I swim for about an hour before my aqua classes.

D-Ahh... the school run! Knitting is a great evening craft as long as you're not trying to follow a difficult pattern during a tense episode! It's great you've been able to add water aerobics and swimming in place of some other activities. Kudos for you! I mean, putting on a suit and taking it off when it's wet is an aerobic challenge in itself!

Julia and her Dad! (Makes me miss mine a lot!)

D-My newest question for guest bloggers--I've made Julia go first--is...What historical figure would you most like to Text with?

J-Corrie ten Boom. I think she is an amazing woman of faith. So brave. So obedient. So inspiring. I wish I could have met her. She is my heroine.

D-She is such an inspiration. Incredible strength and perseverance and then kindness after what might have made most of us bitter!  What a great choice!

What is your fiction favorite…setting? Place and time? Genre’?

J-Ooh I love fiction set in WWII in Europe. I do like my fiction to be set from 1850 onwards. I read a wide variety of Christian and mass market. The only genre I do not read is fantasy, sci fi etc, other than that I am flexible.

Outside the Bronte Parsonage in Haworth

D-Okay so we're just a bit jealous of that photo, but how amazing it must be to travel those footsteps!

The WWl and WWll era have really boomed in popularity! We can thank Downton Abbey for some of that, but there's so many fascinating true stories that come out of those difficult decades.

If you had a rainy afternoon alone to watch a movie what would it be? And what meal would you have delivered if that afternoon included a quiet evening as well? I’m paying with my virtual bank account!

J-I would watch Wuthering Heights with Laurence Olivier. It's one of my favourites. When I was pregnant with Michael, I watched it at least once a week, every week. I just think that it is such a powerful film about a love that never dies. I would also watch White Christmas with Bing Crosby as that is my favourite feel good film.

D-That particular Wuthering Heights production was my mother's favorite!  I have to agree with White Christmas. It's my go-to holiday film and the songs are so fantastic. Such a great era. I think it fed my desire to travel by train (Which is not so common here in the states--a treat for many of us!)

J-Food... mmnn that's a difficult one. I think I would forgo a main meal and just want a big piece of apple pie with homemade custard. I take after my Dad and am an old fashioned pudding person!

D-Ahh, Custard! A staple in my house growing up. My grandmother was an expert. I guess it's 'genetic', and I've rarely found any that half as good as hers!

Just give me a spoon!

If you could wiggle your nose and be in your dream career, what would it be? Or are you already living it?

J-I am so blessed to be living my dream. As a child I always wanted to be a Mummy with a husband, 4 children and lots of cats. I have been so blessed to be married and have 4 children and  5 cats. My dream is to own an old fashioned Seal point Siamese but not while we have our present cats.

Julia with her parents and brothers!

D- My first Siamese was a seal point and I've had flame point and lilac points since then. Now I have what I'd consider a Himalayan mix. Her coloring is all seal-point, except, she's not long and skinny and doesn't have the short hair of a Siamese. She's a 'used cat' that I acquired on line and only saw her face! I'm not allergic to Siamese and they do grow on you with particular temperaments!

What piece of advice would you offer authors who are just starting out?

J-Remember to 'show' us the scene you see in your head. I have read some books that are mainly dialogue and that drives me nuts as I cannot 'see' the action.
(Deb scrambles through her W.I.P.  I'll be right back!)

D-Same for new reviewers--

J-Be kind. Every book is someone's baby.

Llandudno's Cheshire Cat

Thank you Julia! I've really enjoying learning more about! 

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