Penelope Marzec #2–Author Interview

Dear Friends, I’m honored to have Penelope Marzec on my blog today! Penelope is one of the most talented people that I know. She writes, paints, sings, and takes beautiful photographs! Not only is she talented, she’s also incredibly kind. I consider her a wonderful prayer partner and a lovely friend! Penelope is a beautiful person, and I’m so glad that I know her! And guess what??? I have exciting news! Penelope’s latest book, Hoping for Joy, was just published a few days ago!

Danele: Penelope, I’m delighted to have you with us today!

Penelope: Thanks so much for the warm welcome. I’m very happy to be here. Your blog is always interesting, insightful, and a joy to read.

Danele: Thank you! That’s so nice of you to say! I appreciate all of the support you have given me, and I can’t wait to learn more about you. Can you tell us where you feel the presence of God the most?

Penelope: I feel the overwhelming presence of God most in nature. I enjoy walking along trails in the woods in the silence of my own thoughts, but most of all I enjoy walking by the ocean. I was fortunate to grow up along the shore and though I live further inland now, the ocean is not far away. Huge, powerful, and mysterious, the ocean is truly awe-inspiring. Just to sit on a rock and stare out at sea gives me a deep sense of peace. The waves rush in and out with a thunderous rumble. There’s a timelessness to it, helping me to understand the concept of how God is, always was, and always will be. I pray everywhere, but when I’m beside the ocean, I am transfixed by the majesty of it and I don’t have to say anything. I am consoled, calmed, and healed.

Danele: That’s so beautiful! Your words have just painted a lovely picture for me! Thank you for sharing your heart! Now, Penelope, here’s another question for you–has God ever revealed Himself to you in a humorous way?

Penelope: I know God watches over us, but I also am very much aware that He has a sense of humor and sometimes His angels in disguise are quite different from what anyone would suspect. I know this because many years ago, when my daughters were young, I was a Brownie Scout leader. One fine afternoon, I drove to the scout headquarters to pick up pins and badges for the girls in my troop. It was quite a distance from home and way out in farm country. I had my three daughters in the car with me. The car was aging, but it hadn’t given me any trouble–until the engine simply stopped dead on the return leg of the journey.

Danele: Oh, no! That’s awful! What happened next?

Penelope: We were in the middle of nowhere, with a wheat field on our side of the road. However, there was a small bar and package goods store not far away on the other side of the road and the car had enough momentum to coast into the parking lot. Fortunately, the bar had a telephone. (This happened long before cellphones and long before we signed up for Triple A.) I called my husband who promised to rescue us, although he had to leave work.

Danele: I’m glad you were able to get a hold of him!

Penelope: Me too. As we waited outside the bar, men came out and laughed at me. “Hey, lady, what did you do, forget to put gas in the car?” Not one of them offered to help in any way. I was fuming!

Danele: I can understand why! That’s awful!

Penelope: My husband finally appeared, but he couldn’t figure out what was wrong with the car. Then a battered car pulled up beside mine. A very short, older woman got out. Her gray hair was straight and covered by a beret, her only nod to fashion. The rest of her outfit was frumpy. She asked about the car, opened the hood, put her hand over the intake of the carburetor, and told me to start the car. After a few sputters, the engine caught.

Danele: That’s marvelous!

Penelope: Maybe she wasn’t an angel, but I sure thought she could qualify as one. All of us have hands to do God’s work but not everyone takes on that responsibility. While all the men didn’t or couldn’t help with the car, that one older woman knew the trick and solved the problem. God sent someone to help, but while she appeared to be an unlikely candidate for the job she was more than capable. God must have had a good laugh. As for me, I was extremely grateful.

Danele: I would’ve been grateful too! I’m so glad that she helped you out! What a fun story! Now, before I let you go, can you give us a list of the books you have written?

Penelope: Of course! Daddy Wanted, Patriot’s Heart, Patriot’s Pride, The Cowboy’s Miracle, and Hoping for Joy. Hoping for Joy was released on December 16, 2016.

Danele: Congratulations! I’m so happy for you! There’s nothing quite as exciting as having a book released! Can you share a little bit about Hoping for Joy with us? And can you also give us a purchasing link?

Penelope: Sure! Hoping for Joy is part of Prism Book Group’s “Love Is” series, based on 1 Corinthians 13. My book is drawn from the part of Scripture that reads, “love always hopes.” The story is set in a small seaside town with an amusement park. The heroine, Hannah, stares at the diamond ring on her finger and believes her hopes for a wedding are gone as her fiancé, Logan, puts off the date.  She wonders if he loves her anymore. She considers handing him the ring and moving on. He has no faith in the Lord. Should she stop praying for a fiancé with no faith?

But Logan is troubled. He hopes to save his sister from her addiction while helping his father raise his young niece. With his life in turmoil, his dreams have vanished. One night, his sister holds a knife to Hannah’s throat and robs her. Will Hannah forgive him? What will he do with Joy, his sister’s child? Where can he turn for help?

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N2U0XE6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1481907783&sr=8-1&keywords=hoping+for+joy

Danele: I wish you all the best with your new release, Penelope! Thank you so much for being here! I’ve had a great time talking with you!

Penelope: It was my pleasure. I truly appreciate being invited. It’s an honor!

 

Friends, Penelope is such a wonderful person! If you would like to learn more about her, or her books, please follow the links below. I hope you have a wonderful day!

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/penelopemarzecbooks

Twitter: http://twitter.com/penelopemarzec

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/penelopemarzec

Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/marzecpenelope

Website: http://penelopemarzec.weebly.com

Blog: http://penelopemarzec.blogspot.com

 

Lisa Lickel #3–Author Interview

Dear Friends, it’s my ABSOLUTE pleasure to welcome Lisa Lickel back to my blog. Lisa has supported me in so many ways! Not only is she a terrific author, she’s also a BLESSING!

Danele: Hello, Lisa! My readers and I are glad that you’re able to be with us today!

Lisa: Hi, everyone! I’m so pleased to return to dragonflydanele. Danele, your support and encouragement mean so much to keep me going in my career.

Danele: Your encouragement means a lot to me as well! I was just telling my readers how much you’ve helped me! I’ll never forget some of the excellent writing tips you’ve given me! They’re precious gems! I can’t wait to learn more about you! Where is your favorite place to pray?

Lisa: Everywhere, anytime! Prayer is an ongoing conversation, listening and talking, giving and accepting. Prayer is worship; prayer is an act of love and devotion. It’s an active, living devotion, and should be part of everything I am.

Danele: That’s so true! Prayer is awesome! I love the fact that the Creator of the Universe wants to spend time with us! Now, here’s a different question for you–how has being a Christian influenced your writing?

Lisa: When I first began to learn to write professionally, I didn’t even know there was a difference between faith-based and mainstream markets. I was a Christian who happened to write…little did I know! I’m glad there’s a market for Christian fiction, and I’m glad there are certain rules and obligations and boundaries about how to write faith-based material. When I see more and more writers getting not just close to the boundaries but crossing the line of using vulgarity or suggestive imagery, I am glad for those rules. Sure, and yes, I have gotten very close to those lines and my readers let me know it. In UnderStory, I walk along the cliff in a way, too, to suggest and show some depravity in order to contrast the light–the fight against too-common contemporary problems. Conflict is what drives every story, and if there is no struggle to overcome, to be better, there is no story. The challenge and the joy is in using grace to creatively share the problem without lowering the situation to the level of depravity or allowing the “bad stuff” to leave a bad taste.

Danele: That’s a wonderful way to put it, Lisa. Life is full of challenges, and some of those challenges belong in our stories. They make our books pertinent to our readers. But I agree that we need to keep the standard high. Like you, I want my books to always honor Christ. I want my stories to point people to God. Now, here’s another question for you, why do you think it’s important to go to church?

Lisa: Worshiping in communion with others is important. Where two or three are gathered in His name, He is there, and I firmly believe that sharing the experience, the joy of worship, is what we are called to do. We don’t have to do every part of worship the same way, but certain communal acts like Holy Communion unite us in our faith. Sharing and reciting similar creeds shouldn’t be a rote repetition, but a unifying declarative experience. Singing the same hymns or worship songs brings us together as we practice a faith in one Lord, universal and catholic. We can’t get that from worshiping on our “own.”

Danele: That’s so true! Thank you for sharing your heart! Before I let you go, can you give us a list of the books you’ve written?

Lisa: Sure! First Children of Farmington (Early Reader historical series), Buried Treasure Mystery Series, Meander Scar, A Summer in Oakville, Healing Grace, Brave New Century (Anthology), The Last Detail, Everything About You (Novella), Innocents Pray, and UnderStory. 

Danele: I know that your newest book is UnderStory. Can you please tell us more about it?

Lisa: My book UnderStory is about perception and prejudice, how we look at the world based on our perceptions of self through our upbringing. We are all biased in some way and it colors our world. Our bias show how willing we are to see what we want to see, whether it’s another person’s outward appearance, or whether we want to believe in the purity of another’s actions when they seem to help yet we feel something is wrong. The underlying theme of UnderStory is prejudice—how we look and perceive others and judge them and ourselves by the way they look, whether we can see the physical or emotional scars. Lily Masters is born with a genetic condition, Poland’s syndrome, which colors her world, makes her feel unloved and unwanted, and although she’s learned to hide her condition and feelings, get a good job and function in public, she can never again connect with someone who would learn about her physical problem and reject her. When Lily is rescued by a biracial Literature professor, Cam Taylor, who is dealing with prejudice on so many levels, and they are stranded together, she begins to learn not to judge people and situations by what others say or even by her own standards. Lily and Cam’s journeys are about learning that shame is a reaction they choose based on others’ perceptions and standards, not something they have to accept. Learning to free herself from the bonds of self-loathing, Lily realizes how to be strong and fight for her family and how to accept love as well as give it. Cam comes to a peaceful place as he learns to see the world through what is, not through what he anticipates.

Danele: I know that UnderStory has received an endorsement from Lorilyn Roberts, an award-winning author and the founder of the John 3:16 Marketing Network. Can you please share what she said?

Lisa: Of course! “Lisa Lickel weaves together a masterful tale of intrigue and romance, and the multilayers of complexity will leave the reader turning the pages. The characters are well-developed, and overarching themes involving racism and prejudice will resonate with the reader. The story takes place in the Midwest—in a small town that harbors a big secret—perhaps more common than anyone dares to imagine. UnderStory is one of those rare books that’s not only a great read but makes a statement about what’s most important—in the midst of depravity, unfairness, and greed.” —Lorilyn Roberts

Danele: That’s fantastic, Lisa! Can you share a purchasing link with us?

Lisa: https://www.amazon.com/Understory-Lisa-J-Lickel-ebook/dp/B01N3JMMXQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1479507598&sr=8-1&keywords=understory

Danele: Thank you so much for talking with us, Lisa! I’ve had such a great time chatting with you!

Lisa: I am grateful for the opportunity to share my work with your readers, Danele. Thank you.

 

Friends, Lisa is such a kindhearted person! If you would like to learn more about her, or her books, please follow the links below. I hope you have a wonderful day!

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/lisalickel

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/lisajlickel

Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Lisa-J.-Lickel/e/B002D66ECC/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1479505339&sr=8-1

 

Jan Elder #3–Author Interview

Dear Friends, I’m delighted to have another opportunity to talk with Jan Elder! Jan is a wonderful author, and she’s also a kindhearted person. Our conversations always leave me feeling understood and valued. I really appreciate her!

Danele: Hello, Jan! I’m so glad that you’re able to talk with us today!

Jan: Danele, thank you for having me on your inspirational blog.  I am so happy to be here!

Danele: I’m happy you’re here as well! I can’t wait to learn more about you! Can you tell us where you feel the presence of God the most?

Jan: It may sound funny, but it seems like I feel the closest to God when I’m alone in my car. I listen to music (mostly Christian although anything with great chords and harmonies makes me happy) or I might be enjoying one of my favorite stations, or perhaps a CD of one of my beloved teaching ministers. But I find that when I am inspired, THE MOMENT I’m touched by His presence, turning off that sound system and talking to God as if He were right there in the seat next to me (and He is) helps me to feel wrapped in love. He listens. He hears me. And He understands like no one else. Now I think up reasons to go somewhere!

Danele: That’s wonderful! Time spent in the Lord’s presence is so precious! Now, Jan, what’s your favorite Bible story?

Jan: It seems like I’ve been hearing the story of Joseph everywhere I go these days and the importance of waiting on God’s timing. Knowing that when I want to “hurry up” God, remembering that He’s the one in control and that He sees the big picture helps me to stay in faith. Learning to trust that He’s got it all in His hands helps to settle me down. And also remembering that when Joseph was in prison—probably the time of his greatest despair—he still ministered to others. What a stellar example for when I feel down. What’s that old saying? It’s hard to feel down when you’re giving someone else a hand up.

Danele: That’s beautiful, Jan! Thanks for sharing your heart. I know that your family went through a difficult time lately. Would you like to talk about it?

Jan: A little over a year ago, my Aunt Jean died. She was 91, a fine Christian woman, and she was still mentally alert and in very little pain at the end. Not a bad way to go, but what moved me, though, was not just that I would miss her, but that she was my mother’s twin sister, and the last one of Mom’s siblings to pass away. As you might imagine, my mother took it hard. Now, not only was she an orphan with no living parents, but she was also the sole survivor in her family. The grief and sense of aloneness made mom’s health take a nosedive and she landed in the hospital. For the first time, this vibrant, “fully alive,” “fully engaged” woman began to draw in upon herself and voice that she was now ready to leave this world behind. She sounded on the brink of despair.

Danele: That’s awful, Jan! I’m so sorry!

Jan: I tell you, it scared me a little. Oh yes, my mother was ready to go to heaven—she had given her life to the Lord when she was ten—but never before had she talked about giving up and possessing the desire to go home to Jesus. When she made it out of the hospital, she was in rehab for another three weeks before she returned to her own independent apartment. I was able to visit her most days (she lives about an hour away from me) and gradually, her will to live returned as her health improved. We talked about what was behind this sense of despondency, discussed her purpose in life, and she began to see that she still had a lot of living to do.

Mom lives in a terrific retirement community along with 1,500 other senior citizens. Many of those people are, as of yet, unsaved. In fact, for most, where they are living now is their “last stop.” Mom had held many Bible studies since she moved there in 2003, she had led some of her friends to make that all-important decision to live a life in Christ, and she was still in reasonably good health and able to continue that work. She realized that her reason for living was to continue to show others that they were beloved children of God.

Today, at not quite 93, Mom is writing her sixth book, a collection of stories about dear friends she has known throughout her life. Yes, I am proud to say she knows how to use a computer, she emails, and she’s even on Facebook! I’m sure I will be helping her some with this new venture, but the ideas are all hers.

And what did I learn from all of this? Not only will I cherish every moment I still have with her here on earth, but it’s never too late for anyone to make a difference right where God has placed them. I only hope that when I’m a nonagenarian (and I very well might be because mom had several relatives live well into their hundreds) I can live out my life with such a magnificent purpose in mind.

Danele: Wow! That’s marvelous, Jan! Your mother sounds like a very special person! Now, here’s another question for you—what do you think heaven is going to be like?

Jan: I have heard that we all get jobs in heaven. Not jobs that are “work” but jobs that are FUN! So when I’m not singing and praising God (and the music is going to be GLORIOUS!!!), I’m going to be petting cats, playing fetch with the dogs, and galloping horses like the wind! After that, I’ll be walking with Jesus on a warm, sandy beach, surf lapping at our toes. And hey, everyone is invited, so let me know if you want to come along!

Danele: Oh, Jan! You just made me smile! Now, before I let you go, can you give us a list of the books you have written?

Jan: Sure! Manila Marriage App, A Semi-Precious Christmas, Love, Lies, and Fireflies, Frosting and Flurries (Boxed set of Christmas novellas with four other authors), and Moostletoe.

Danele: The holidays are approaching, and I know that Moostletoe is a Christmas story. Can you please share its back cover blurb?

Jan: Fresh out of divinity school, Rev. Samantha Evans is ready to conquer the world for Christ. She lands in Moose Creek, Maine, a tiny backwater town with more moose per square mile than men. Even worse, one of her new parishioners chews up new ministers for breakfast, and he’s determined to send her packing.

Forest ranger Eric Palmer is done with women. Determined to live simply with no encumbrances, he’s moved to Northern Maine to study the moose population. With Christmas right around the corner, he runs into his buddy, Sammie, the girl who’d been his best friend when they were teenagers. Unlike most of the women in his life, he trusts her implicitly. But could she ever be more than a friend?

When Samantha’s career is on the line, Eric must save her job and rescue his own shattered heart in the process. But how does Matilda the town moose factor in?

Danele: That sounds like fun! I know that Moostletoe can be purchased as part of Frostings and Flurries, a boxed set of Christmas novellas. Can you give us the purchasing link for the set?

Jan: https://www.amazon.com/Frosting-Flurries-Delicious-Christmas-Romances-ebook/dp/B01M7XCTP4/ref=la_B00VXW5F2C_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1479501937&sr=1-1

Danele: Moostletoe has also become available for purchase as an individual story outside of the box set. Can you give a link for purchasing the book individually?

Jan: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01NAEM0YM/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1480864890&sr=8-2&keywords=moostletoe

Danele: And finally, Jan, can you give us a link where we can keep updated on Moostletoe and your other books?

Jan: Of course! https://www.amazon.com/Jan-Elder/e/B00VXW5F2C

Danele: Jan, thank you so much for being with us today! I really enjoyed talking with you!

Jan: Danele, it’s been a privilege to be invited to appear on your blog today. Thank you for your ministry.

 

Friends, Jan Elder is a wonderful person! If you would like to learn more about her, or her books, please follow the links below. I hope you have a wonderful day!

http://janelderauthor.com

https://www.facebook.com/janice.elder.author

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/13261561.Jan_Elder

 

Jan Elder #2-Author Interview

Dear Friends, it’s my delight to introduce you to Jan Elder. Jan is a Christian author, and she’s also a very kind person. Her love for the Lord shines through everything she says and does. I feel honored to have her on my blog!

Danele: Jan, I’m so glad that you’re able to talk with us today!

Jan: Danele, I am so happy to be here. Your blog is one of my favorites.

Danele: That’s so nice of you to say! Thank you! Jan, I know my readers are eager to learn more about you. You’ve told me that you’ve been through a difficult time recently. Would you like to talk about it?

Jan: This year has been rough. I lost a job I’ve had for fourteen years and there were some moments when the pain nearly overwhelmed me. Almost a sensation of grief, if that can be said about a job. I think the most difficult aspects of the situation, though, had nothing to do with the actual work I was doing, but rather I missed the friends I interacted with on a daily basis.

I’m the type of person who loves to “connect” and those people meant a lot to me and still do. But over the last few months, I’ve been learning that Jesus is truly my friend. I would have said that before, but our relationship has become a great deal deeper as I’ve taken the time to “check in” with Him many times a day. The Lord and I talk over all sorts of things, especially those little things I might have discussed with a human before.

I’ve been a born-again Christian since the tender age of five and you’d have thought I would have had this part down by now, but I tend to try to reason it all out by myself or with those good friends and “save” calling on the Lord for the tough stuff. Leaving the job turned out to be a true blessing in disguise. Of course, God knew all the time what was best for me. I still like to talk to people, but I’m come to understand the wisdom and necessity of running to Him first.

Danele: I’m so sorry that you went through such a difficult time, but I’m glad that God was with you in such a special way. Do you have a praise report to share?

Jan: How much space have you got? When I lost my job, after a week of wallowing, I figured out that I had been given a gift—a time to reinvent my life. Since I’m a writer, hey, now I had the time to write. I’d been wanting to do a series about a woman minister in Maine, and I invented a little town called Moose Creek. My sister was a pastor in Maine many years ago and so I had plenty of material. And my grandparents were “Maniacs” (um, I mean Mainers) and I’ve been able to visit the state many times, so there are lots of connections. Hey, and who doesn’t like moose?

While I was busy doing this fun undertaking, my dream job landed in my lap, completely out of the blue (meaning, of course, that it was entirely God’s idea.) I’m now training to be a life coach and besides writing, I realize it’s my life’s passion. Now I get to help people discover the person God meant them to be. I get to talk about gifts, and blessings, and help each dear person move forward toward God’s best for their lives. Have you ever heard the truism that “good” can be the enemy of “great?” So often we “settle” for less than the best and our God is a God of abundance. I’ve discovered that when I’m done talking with someone, I’m the one who is truly blessed! Between writing and coaching, I am a happy, happy girl and I am so very grateful!

Danele: I’m so happy for you! Speaking of joyful things, is there a specific praise song that seems to usher you into the presence of the Lord?

Jan: There is a song that has been on Christian radio for a while that means a great deal to me. The day I found out I had lost my job, one of my best friends sent me the link to the Casting Crowns song “Just Be Held.”

In the chorus, the words state, “Your world’s not falling apart, it’s falling into place. I’m on the throne, stop holding on and just be held.” Those words changed the way I was thinking about my situation and I clung to them with all my might. After the tears stopped flowing, hope returned.

For anyone out there reading this, please know there is hope in whatever difficult situation you are in. Give it to God, let it go, allow Him hold you, and remember, you are LOVED!

Here’s the link with the lyrics if you want to listen to this inspirational piece. Believe me, it’s worth your time. Hear and believe! One of my most favorite songs—EVER!  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tIZitK6_IMQ

Danele: That’s a really beautiful song! Thank you for sharing it! Now, here’s a fun question for you. Has God ever revealed Himself to you in a humorous way?

Jan: My cat, Shu-Shu loves to get my attention however she can. She seems to be particularly enamored with my computer keyboard and enjoys walking on the keyboard. The other day, she traipsed across the keys and those furry little toes typed “ggggggggggoooooooooooop838p47ooooodddddddddddd.”  Okay, there were a few extra characters in there, but she was clearly letting me know that God was in the room. I couldn’t help but giggle.

Danele: Jan, that’s so funny! Now, before I let you go, can you tell us about your latest book release?

Jan: Sure! We’ve been talking about the untenable situations life sometimes throws at us. In Love, Lies, and Fireflies, at one point in the story, my hero, Jake, is really hurting. He talks to his pastor, Todd, about his pain. I’d like to share that passage here to be an encouragement to your readers:

“Is God really asking us to surrender all, as in everything? Somehow that doesn’t seem quite fair.” Jake leaned in closer.

“You’re familiar with the story of Abraham and Isaac?… My talk is titled ‘Are You in a Desperate Situation?’ It sounds like you’re right there with Abraham. I would guess that desperate is exactly how the man felt when God asked him to sacrifice his own son—the son who had been a long-awaited gift from God. His circumstances would have seemed hopeless…Imagine Abraham’s angst. On the darkest day of his life, he and Isaac trudged up the side of the mountain. Despite his sorrow, Abraham put one foot in front of the other, his dread increasing with every step. Isaac’s death seemed certain.” Todd pursed his lips. “It doesn’t seem to make much sense, does it? But, understanding this part helps. Abraham trusted God with his whole heart. Even if he had to surrender everything….” Todd glanced over at Jake and caught his eye. “No matter what, he was going to listen and obey when it seemed crazy. Now, here’s the cool part. At the same time that Abraham and Isaac were walking up the mountain, a sacrificial ram was climbing up the other side. For every step Abraham took toward the summit, the ram also took a step. God placed that ram at the top at the mountain at precisely the right moment.”

Jake took a deep breath. “So, what you’re saying is God put His plan in place before Abraham was aware of it?”

“Yes, that’s it. All Abraham saw was his pain, but God was already prepared to save Isaac. God had to make sure Abraham really meant it when he said he trusted Him. God was testing him.” Folding his hands in his lap, Todd sat back. “To answer your question, does God want us to surrender all? Maybe in some cases, He does. But I’m thinking that most of the time, He just wants to know if we’re willing to sacrifice.” He looked Jake in the eye. “Why don’t you think on that and listen to what God is saying to you?”

Danele: What a lovely passage! Can you give us the back cover blurb for Love, Lies, and Fireflies and a purchasing link?

Jan: Didi O’Brien is engaged—at least she was an hour ago. Now she’s not so sure. Her fiancé, the suave Kevin Cabot, has just revealed that he’s been unfaithful, and he’s not the least bit sorry. Reeling from the betrayal, with her plans for a happily-ever-after life in doubt, she prays for direction. The answer comes as a complete surprise. God has someone better in mind… Middle school teacher, Jake Montgomery, is struggling with some issues of his own. Sadly, a year previously his fiancée had been killed in a car crash. Battling anger and despair, in a mountain-top experience, Jake wrestles with the Almighty, and is ready to live again. In his youth, he’d felt an unmistakable call to the ministry but, like the prophet Jonah, since then, he’s been running hard in the wrong direction. Through a crisis of faith, and glimpses of mercy, Didi and Jake find each other. But can they find the strength to resolve the many obstacles that conspire to keep them apart?  https://www.amazon.com/Love-Lies-Fireflies-Jan-Elder/dp/1537410849

Danele: Before I let you go, can you give us a list of the books you’ve written?

Jan: Sure! Manila Marriage App, A Semi-Precious Christmas, Love, Lies, and Fireflies, and Moostletoe (coming October 2016).

Danele: Jan, it’s been so nice talking with you! Thank you for taking the time to speak with us!

Jan: Danele, you are a special lady, and I am privileged to know you.

 

Friends, Jan really is a wonderful person! If you would like to learn more about Jan or her books, please follow the links below. I hope you have a wonderful day!

http://janelderauthor.com

https://www.facebook.com/janice.elder.author

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/13261561.Jan_Elder

 

Judith Rolfs–Author Interview

Dear Friends, it’s my pleasure to introduce you to Judith Rolfs! Judith is not only a Christian author, she’s also an amazing person! I met her through Prism Book Group, and I’ve been impressed with her intelligence, her compassion, and her love of the Lord. I feel honored to have her on my blog!

Danele: Judith, I’m so glad that you’re able to be with us today!

Judith: I’m delighted to be with you, Danele, and I’m excited to have this opportunity to meet your readers.

Danele: I’m sure my readers are excited to learn more about you—I know that I am! Judith, can you tell us when you gave your heart to Christ? What were the circumstances surrounding your decision?

Judith: In my thirties, I’d been an automatic churchgoer simply because it seemed to be the thing to do, not because my heart was it. My family life seemed very complete, but I still had a deep gnawing that there must be something more. I began to explore the complexity of the natural world around me – I always loved nature – and also I began studying all religions. One night, I actually had an experience of the Holy Spirit whom I’d been studying in Scripture when I was home alone – my husband traveled a lot for his work – I can best describe it as a simultaneous feeling of peace and deep joy. This experience along with my intellectual assent from my studying moved me from agnosticism to faith in God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. I love observing the fascinating features of each human being’s life and the way God orchestrates individual lives.

Danele: It’s so amazing how God meets each of us in unique and powerful ways. My illness taught me the importance of trusting God.  Have you had a situation in your life when you needed to totally rely on God?

Judith: I depended on God to get me through treatment for active Hepatitis C and two macula hole surgeries that required being still and face down for three weeks each time. Soon after, I developed Lyme’s disease and was ill for one and a half years. By God’s mercy and grace I am completely restored.

Danele: That’s amazing, Judith! I’m so glad that you’re well again!

Judith: God is still a healing God. I pray for His complete healing for you as well, Danele. I know you’ve gone through some very challenging health situations.

Danele: Thank you! I really appreciate your prayers! I think that’s one of the nicest things about you, Judith, you really care about the people you encounter. Thank you for partnering with me in prayer!

Judith: You’re welcome.

Danele: It amazes me how God teaches me new things every day. Has God ever taught you an eye-opening lesson?

Judith: Yes, He taught me to trust Him always because ultimately He works all for good as we trust in Him.

Danele: That’s so true! That’s the promise of Romans 8:28. Hearing about your health struggles and how God has restored you, has just given me more proof that Romans 8:28 holds true. On another subject, why do you think it’s important to sing praises to God?

Judith: I truly believe God inhabits the praises of His people. I laughingly tell my four children and seven grandchildren God always knows how grateful I am because it’s my delight to thank Him daily for everything – the streaks of sun entering a window, the intricate beauty of a weed. I’m all about gratitude!

Danele: Singing praises is incredibly important and so are personal devotions. Can you describe your devotional routine?

Judith: First thing out of bed, I drop to my knees and pray that everything I think, do, and say this day will be pleasing to God. I have low blood sugar so I need breakfast quickly – I often spend time with the Lord and my husband if he’s home. Scripture comes next – usually three chapters. I also journal, and lastly, I pray for my family members and friends’ needs.

Danele: I usually have my devotions in the morning too. There’s something satisfying about starting the day in the Lord’s presence. Right now, I’m studying Psalms. Do you have a favorite Psalm?

Judith: May I pick two favorites? Psalm 91 and Psalm 34. My husband and I prayed Psalm 91 continually as God healed our eighteen-year-old son from terminal cancer and from being hit by a drunk driver within the same year. And I autograph every women’s book with Psalm 34 because it’s so full of hope and promise.

Danele: I love both of those Psalms too! They’re fantastic! Speaking of fantastic things, what do you think heaven is going to be like?

Judith: Amazing! I already have a twenty-four year old grandson in heaven who has added his musical and artistic gifts to the scene. I’m ready when God says, “Go.”

Danele: Oh, Judith, I’m so sorry for your loss! But what you said is so true; you’ll have a lovely reunion waiting for you. I have many loved ones in heaven too, and I can’t wait to see them again! Sometimes, life can be incredibly painful. There are so many people hurting in this world. What would you like to say to them?

Judith: God has intentionally created your life for your wholeness and purpose as you use your God-given gifts in some way to bless yourself and others. He loves you personally and never takes His eye off you. Keep your eyes on Him and His word and you’ll be amazed at how you’ll begin to enjoy your life.

Danele: That’s beautiful! Thank you for sharing your heart, Judith! Is there anything else that you would like to say to us?

Judith: As a professional marriage and family counselor and now full-time author/speaker, I’m dedicated to helping people live their best lives. That’s why I always weave Scriptural principles about family and relationships in my fiction and non-fiction – whatever the genre – in my children’s fantasy mystery novels, how-to books for men and women’s relationships, parenting, devotionals like Breathless, Minute Meditations, and God Thoughts and recently my adult mystery thrillers: Directive 99, Bullet in the Night, and Never Tomorrow. God’s Word and ways are powerful and never return void.  In fact, I recently got an email from a man in his seventies who read my latest mystery about a female serial killer (although it’s not graphic in any way or offensive to readers) and he said he had a spiritual reawakening after reading it. Only God!

Danele: That’s wonderful! Writing really does give a person a unique place of ministry. Besides ministering, what do you like the most about writing?

Judith: As a writer, I have the best job in the world. I meet amazing people every day and some are even real. I’m never bored.

Danele: Oh, Judith! You just made me smile! Before I let you go, please tell us about your latest book release, Never Tomorrow.

Judith: I’m excited about the response to Never Tomorrow, my recently released mystery. It is being endorsed by best-selling New York Times author Pat Gussin who said: “Layer upon layer of intrigue—laced with murder–propels this novel to the pinnacle of suspense. An ingenious plot, dynamic and complex characters, and an insight into the troubled avenues of human behavior rarely exposed make NEVER TOMORROW a stand-out for readers of mysteries, thrillers, and suspense.”

Danele: That’s marvelous! I’ve heard that Never Tomorrow has been getting rave reviews.

Judith: In the first two months, it received twenty reviews of four and five stars.

Danele: That’s fabulous! Can you tell us more about it?

Judith: The theme of Never Tomorrow is the aftermath of divorce on the participants and family members. Who hasn’t been impacted by divorce in some form? Also, what woman has never experienced depression? I wanted to write a mystery and a love story that would give readers deep insights, so I wove in ideas that help men and women forgive, heal, and move on to enjoy a happy marriage or contented singlehood. It’s important to me that my mystery be as compelling and flawless as I can make it. I wanted an original plot, and I believe God gave it to me. Readers say they don’t figure out the killer until the last page, which thrills me.

Danele: Can you share the back cover copy for Never Tomorrow and a purchasing link?

Judith: Journalist Whitney Barnes investigates the mysterious death of her mother and three women from Cortland City seeking the thread that links them to an enigmatic killer. Why are women being murdered with no apparent motives for their death? Police are mystified at the lack of clues and a growing sense of fear surrounds the community. Who will be the next victim? Determined to find the killer, Whitney discovers these women were dealing with wounds from their troubling pasts, but what was their connection? She teams up with Dr. Sarah Stevens, an expert on women’s issues, to ferret out information while TV talk show host, Rich, and real estate broker, Jordan, vie for Whitney’s affection. Whitney discovers new strength within her but is it powerful enough to cope with this dark force of evil? Suspense escalates, as Whitney becomes the killer’s next target.

Never Tomorrow, and all my books, are available on Amazon and at Barnes & Noble. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01E7LL3IU/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1

Danele: Thank you for talking with us, Judith! I’ve really enjoyed it!

Judith: The pleasure was mine – it’s been a delightful experience. Thank you for inviting me, Danele.

 

Friends, Judith Rolfs is a TERRIFIC person! I’ve really enjoyed getting to know her! If you would like to learn more about Judith or her books, please follow the links below. I hope you have a wonderful day!

www.judithrolfs.com

www.judithrolfs.blogspot.com

www.facebook.com/judithrolfs

 

Carlene Havel #2–Author Interview

Dear Friends, I feel very honored to have Christian author, Carlene Havel, back on my blog. Carlene is such an incredible person! She has a strong faith in God and an extremely kind heart. She also has a fun sense of humor that always makes me smile. There have been times when Carlene has stood with me in prayer, and I feel not only friendship for her—but also a deep, deep respect. She is a person of quality.

 

Danele: Hello, Carlene! I’m so glad that you’re with us today!

Carlene: Thank you, Danele.  It’s always a pleasure to chat with you!

Danele: The pleasure is all mine! I’m eager to learn more about you. Can you tell us how being a Christian has influenced your writing?

Carlene: I am blessed to be a follower of Jesus Christ. My ambition is for Him to be a powerful, pervasive influence in everything I say, think, or do.  I am convinced that whatever resides in the heart always flows outward in every aspect of life—in written as well as spoken words. For me, authentic Christianity becomes who we are.

Danele: Wow! That’s so true. Carlene, there are so many people hurting in this world. What would you like to say to them?

Carlene: Jesus invites everyone who is hurting (those who “labor and are heavy laden”) to come to Him.  He will give you rest.  He is the answer for every unfair, harmful, painful thing you have or will endure.  I wish we could sit and sip lemonade or coffee and talk about this for the rest of the day.

Danele: I really love how Jesus takes our burdens and gives us peace.  There is nothing quite as wonderful as God’s rest. Now, before I let you go, can you give us a list of the books you have written?

Carlene: Sure! A Hero’s Homecoming, A Sharecropper Christmas, Baxter Road Miracle, The Scarlet Cord, Here Today Gone Tomorrow, and Evidence Not Seen.

Danele: Evidence Not Seen is your newest release, isn’t it? Can you tell us more about it?

Carlene: Evidence Not Seen is a short novel, inspired by 1 Corinthians 13:5, “Love keeps no record of wrongs.” As soon as Joan Alley, Prism Book Group’s editor-in-chief, put forth the premise of the “Love Is” series, the outline of this story took me prisoner!

Danele: Can you give us a description of your book?

Carlene: Although attorney Jeff Galloway’s career is in high gear, his personal life is a mess. Just before his father returns home from a 27-year stretch in prison, his girlfriend dumps him. When a chance encounter begins to blossom into new romance, softhearted Melanie Clark encourages Jeff to find a way to forgive his father’s long absence.

The intertwined themes of the story, set in 1980, are romance and mystery.  Jeff really wants to forget his father’s misdeeds and have a good relationship with him, but he can’t get over the hardships he and his mother faced while his dad was in prison. Falling in love with Melanie turns everything upside down, helping Jeff view things from a fresh perspective.  Since his mother has always maintained his father’s innocence, Jeff decides to do some amateur sleuthing.  In doing so, he encounters Otto Schmidt (my all-time favorite character), a curmudgeonly retired police detective who loves to play mind games and leads Jeff to a stunning conclusion.

Danele: That sounds really interesting, Carlene! I’ve read several of your books, and I’ve enjoyed them all. Can you give us purchasing information for Evidence Not Seen?

Carlene: Sure! Evidence Not Seen can be purchased through Amazon, and it is free to members of Amazon Prime. https://www.amazon.com/Evidence-Not-Seen-Love-Book-ebook/dp/B01ES2MQCU

Danele: Carlene, it’s been such a joy talking with you today! Thanks for sharing your heart with my readers!

Carlene: It has been my extreme pleasure, Danele. Thank you for the opportunity to be here.

 

Friends, Carlene is absolutely TERRIFIC!! You couldn’t meet a kinder, more genuine person! If you would like to learn more about Carlene or her books, please follow the links below. I hope you have a wonderful day!

https://www.facebook.com/AuthorCarleneHavel

http://www.amazon.com/Carlene-Havel/e/B008M9J8JA/

http://chavelbooks.com/

Renee Blare #2–Author Interview

Dear Friends, it’s my absolute pleasure to welcome Christian author, Renee Blare, back to my blog. Renee is such a terrific person. Sometimes, we start chatting online and before we know it, an hour has slipped past. Many times when we talk, I start laughing so hard that I have trouble breathing. Not only is she hilarious, I’ve found Renee to be a kind, warmhearted, and very insightful. She also has a genuine love of the Lord. I’m honored to consider her a friend.

Danele: Hi, Renee! I’m thrilled to have you with us today!

Renee: Hello there, chickadee! It’s so great to be here.

Danele: It’s a blast having you, ladybug! I’m going to enjoy finding out more about you! Let’s start things off with a fun question. What’s the first thing you want to do when you get to heaven?

Renee: Dance on the streets of gold. I hear that we can sing and dance a lot better than we do here, and we get brand new bodies. So, I can’t wait!

Danele: Oh, Renee! You just made me laugh! When we get to heaven, let’s sing a duet, okay? Now, here’s a serious question for you. Where do you feel the presence of God the most? In church, during personal devotions, in nature?

Renee: I have to say that I feel His presence the most when I’m deep in prayer whether that be in church, my bathtub, or listening to the birds sing next to one of my high mountain lakes. I love to talk to my God. He bathes me with His glory and peace. I don’t always begin our conversations that way, but sooner or later, we come to an accord.

Danele: That’s beautiful! I love basking in God’s peace! There are so many people hurting in this world.  What would you say to them?

Renee: You’re not alone.

Danele: That’s so true. God is always with us, isn’t He? Has God ever taught you an eye-opening lesson?

Renee: Uh…oh boy. How about that I’m not the center of the universe? And what I think doesn’t really matter in the overall scheme of things. In other words, Renee Blare is not God, and that’s okay.

Danele: Oh, Renee, I’ve had to learn that lesson too! Now, before I let you go, can you give us a list of the books you’ve written?

Renee: Sure! I’ve written Beast of Stratton, To Soar on Eagle’s Wings, and Through Raging Waters.

Danele: Through Raging Waters is your newest release, isn’t it? Can you tell us more about it?

Renee: Of course! Through Raging Waters is the second book in the Snowy Range Chronicles. It propels the series onward and upward. Timber Springs, a small town on the edge of the Snowies, faces spring runoff and nasty weather, but as the creeks rise, secrets are flushed from their hiding places and lives change forever.

Danele: That sounds good! Can you share the back cover blurb and a purchasing link?

Renee: If Mother Nature has her way, Timber Springs will never be the same… A warm spring and early rainstorms melt the snowpack. Spring runoff compounded by the storm of the century sends Timber Springs into a tailspin. Tossed into the role of rescuer, local pharmacist Paul Fitzgerald must face his past before the whole world falls apart. While he fights to contain the beast around him, he finds his steadfast control slipping through his fingers. And life…everyone’s life…hangs by a thread once again.

She isn’t a hero. Melissa Hampton has her own demons to battle. After she learns of her mysterious beginnings amidst her mother’s keepsakes, she faces more than just the river rushing outside her door. Now, she must discern friend from foe…but as waters rise and tension climbs within Timber Springs, she needs to rise to the challenge or lose the only man she’s ever loved. Can two people find each other through raging waters?

https://www.amazon.com/Through-Raging-Waters-Renee-Blare-ebook/dp/B01HBSB9BM/

Danele: Renee, it’s been such a pleasure talking with you! Thanks for being here today!

Renee: Thank you so much for having me, Danele! You’re awesome.

 

Friends, Renee Blare is such an incredible person! She’s so much fun, and she’s also incredibly kind! If you would like to learn more about Renee or her books, please follow the links below. I hope you have a wonderful day!

http://www.reneeblare.com/

http://reneeblare.blogspot.com/

https://www.facebook.com/ReneeBlareAuthor/

Gail Pallotta #2–Author Interview

Dear Friends,

I’m so incredibly HONORED to have Gail Pallotta back on my blog. Gail is such an incredible person. She is kind, patient, giving, and just plain AWESOME!!! When I started my publication journey, Gail was always ready to answer my questions.  I will never forget her kindness! I feel very blessed to call her my friend.

Danele: Gail, I’m so glad that you’re able to be with us today!

Gail: Hi, Danele. Thank you so much for having me.

Danele: I know my readers are eager to learn more about you. Can you tell us why you think it’s important to pray?

Gail: Praying draws us closer to God and allows us to have a personal relationship with Him. There are many places in the Bible where we’re told God wants us to communicate with Him. These are a few of my favorites:

“…the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on Him, for ‘Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.’” Romans 10:12-13

I especially like this one. “Cast your cares on the Lord and He will sustain you; He will never let the righteous fall.” Psalm 55:22

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayers and petition with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Philippians 4:6

“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.” Matthew 7:7

Also in Matthew, Jesus taught us how to pray with the Lord’s prayer. (Matthew 6:9-13)

Danele: What a wonderful answer, Gail! Those verses are terrific! Speaking of Scripture verses, why do you think it’s important to read your Bible?

Gail: God and Jesus reveal themselves to us through the Scripture. In the Old Testament, the Psalms bring comfort and hope in times of sadness and give praise to God for our joys. Prophecies in the Old Testament come true in the New Testament showing us how God’s word is fulfilled. Also, in the New Testament we learn how Jesus wants us to live and how we should treat each other. The miracles Jesus performed speak of God’s power and faithfulness to those who believe in Him and reassure us. When we read the Bible, we don’t need to wonder what God is like, what He expects of us, or whether or not He’ll be with us if we open our hearts to Him and strive to live by His will.

Danele: Wow! You’re so right! And I loved how you explained it! Thank you! Do you have a piece of advice for any new Christians who are reading this blog today?

Gail: I don’t think I could’ve answered this question had I not recently met a new Christian reading a non-fiction book about Christianity. This person said the book confused her, and she had a difficult time understanding exactly what to believe and what was expected of her. Because people can, and often do, interpret the Bible in different ways, I’d advise new Christians to read the Bible, pray to understand what God wants to say to them, and seek personal relationships with Him. If we keep seeking answers through prayer, we’ll receive them.

Danele: That’s terrific advice!! Here’s another question for you, Gail. How has being a Christian influenced your writing?

Gail: Christianity is such an important part of my life it seeps into my writing without being included in the plot or character sketches. It’s already in the heart and soul of at least one person in the book and that person will act on his or her faith. At first, I might not know which character it is, but as the story unfolds he or she will show me.

Danele: I love the Christian aspect of your books! Can you share a list of your books with my readers?

Gail: Sure! Stopped Cold, Mountain of Love and Danger, Messages, Barely Above Water, and Breaking Barriers.

Danele: Breaking Barriers has just released, hasn’t it? I’d love for you to tell us more about it!

Gail: Breaking Barriers is part of the Prism Book Group Love Is… series based on 1 Corinthians 13:4-8. The sub-title to Breaking Barriers is “Love is not easily angered.” In this action-packed thriller, gunshots ring out as Ann Jones enters church. She hides in the bathroom until they stop then stumbles into the sanctuary. The congregation lies dead in pools of blood. To rebuild the church she starts True Light Guardians. At the first meeting, she’s attacked by a terrorist but rescued by James Crawford. He melts her heart which is cold from her father’s abuse, and they fall for each other. She’s afraid to commit to love that might grow angry later like the type she knew as a child. James yearns to stop other attempts on Ann’s life, but he can’t. Tormented by her constant risks, he breaks up with her. When an assault sends her to the hospital, an unlikely ally shares Ann’s plight with James, but he reveals a lead that puts all three of them in even more danger.

Danele: Wow! Breaking Barriers sounds like it is going to be a thriller! Can you share a purchasing link with us?

Gail: Of course. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01GGEX7Z8

Danele: Gail, it has been such a privilege interviewing you again! Thank you for being here today!

Gail: Thank you letting me visit your inspirational blog.

 

Friends, Gail really is a wonderful person! If you would like to learn more about her or her books, please follow the links below. I hope you have a wonderful day!

Website – http://www.gailpallotta.com

Blog – http://www.gailpallotta.blogspot.com

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/AuthorsandMore

Twitter – Gail Pallotta @Hopefulwords (https://twitter.com/?lang=en)

 

Brooke Williams #2–Author Interview

Dear Friends,

I’m so delighted to welcome Brooke Williams back to my blog. Brooke is such a special lady! She is the type of person who brings joy and laughter wherever she goes. I feel very blessed to have her as a friend! I think she’s terrific!

Danele: Brooke, I’m so glad that you’re able to be with us today!

Brooke: Thank you so much for having me. I’ve gotten so much encouragement from you. I feel it an honor to call you my friend. I only hope we can meet in person someday!

Danele: Wouldn’t that be a blast!! I would love it! I have a feeling that we would end up talking and laughing for hours. Speaking about laughter, has anything happened recently that’s made you giggle?

Brooke: Yes, actually. My older daughter (age 7) and I are both in hand chimes groups at church. At our last practice, the kids’ group was playing, and I was filling in for a child who couldn’t make it. Between songs, I looked at my older daughter and asked her where her sister was (little sis is age 3). She gave me the funniest look. I quickly realized that the sister I was asking about was SITTING IN MY LAP! Not only was she on top of me, but she had her hand up the sleeve of my shirt (what she likes to do when drinking her milk). Wow, where was my mind?! I’m still baffled by that one!

Danele: Oh, Brooke! You just made me laugh!! I can remember tearing the house apart one day, looking for my car keys. They were in my hand the whole time! I have NO IDEA how I was able to remove the sofa cushions while clutching the keys in my palm. LOL!! Now, here’s a more serious question for you. Why do you think it is important to pray?

Brooke: I’ve had fun teaching my girls that they can talk to God about anything. At night before bed, we all say our prayers. My littlest one generally says, “Thank you, God, for cheese and hamburgers…” and anything else that comes to her mind. She’s three and those things are precious in her world! My older daughter came up with something more profound. She’s 7 and deathly afraid of smoke alarms. So often, when she’s trying to get to sleep and alone, she’s afraid. The other day, she told me the following: “At night, when I’m afraid, I just talk to God and ask Him to hug me really close and then I can feel His arms around me and I’m not scared anymore.” I about cried when she said that. And THAT’S why it’s important to pray. Because when you do, God wraps His arms around you and you feel close to Him.

Danele: That’s beautiful, Brooke! I love feeling the peace of God during prayer. It is so incredible! Now, Brooke, there are so many people who are hurting in this world. Is there anything you’d like to say to them?

Brooke: I would tell them that I’m so sorry for your pain. And you are not alone. Not only are there people out there who care about you, whether you know them or not, but there’s a God that cares about you more than anything. Power through. Life is hard, but it’s worth it. And there’s another side to every dark cloud.

Danele: That’s so true, Brooke! There were so many times that I wanted to give up during my illness and quarantine. I’m so glad that I gave God my pain and kept putting one foot in front of the other. Life always gets better. It may take a little time (over seven years in my case) but it ALWAYS gets better. Brooke, I know that being a Christian influences every part of our lives. How has being a Christian influenced your writing?

Brooke: As a Christian, I want other Christians to have something uplifting to read. Life is hard, plain and simple. But I want to take the stress away from them for the time being and help their hearts feel lighter. I also want to give them a clean read that doesn’t dive into anything they don’t want to dwell on.

Danele: That’s a wonderful goal, Brooke! I use reading as a stress reliever, and I love it when a book whisks me away to some faraway place. Although I love to read, I’m always a little worried when I try out a new author. Lots of times, when I go to the bookstore, I will pull an interesting book from the shelf and thumb through it. I read a page here and there, and if I find a dirty place, I don’t buy it. My method doesn’t always work, and I’ve been unpleasantly surprised when some of the books I buy have questionable scenes. A dirty scene always reminds me of a worm in an apple. That’s one of the things that I’ve enjoyed about your books. I’ve read several of them now, and I’ve found that you write scenes that are funny without being crude, and romantic without being sleazy. Can you give us a list of the books you have written?

Brooke: Sure! Accept this Dandelion, Dandelions on the Road, After the Final Dandelion, Mamarazzi, Backwards Christmas, Someone Always Loved You, and Wrong Place, Right Time.

Danele: Can you tell us a little about your latest new release and share a purchasing link?

Brooke: Of course! My most recent release (May 17) is After the Final Dandelion. It’s the third book in the Dandelion series. In book 1, Accept this Dandelion, we see one couple coming together. And in book 2, Dandelions on the Road, a second couple. In this third installment, After the Final Dandelion, we get to see what happens to both couples AFTER their happy endings.

Here’s the back cover blurb: After Renee Lockhart appeared on the local TV dating show “Accept this Dandelion” and found the love of her life, she thought she was done with TV. But when she hears that the entire city has bets on how soon she and her fiancé will break up, she is determined to show that their love is meant to last. When Mike, the KETO producer, approaches her about airing the wedding live, she jumps at the chance. Once she is set up with a famous wedding coordinator, plans take a turn for the worse and the simple wedding they wanted becomes the event of the year. In the meantime, Eva Merida is dealing with her own life changing opportunity. Though she’s in love with her boyfriend, who she met on the second season of the dating show, she can’t turn down the chance to investigate a Hollywood TV show when offered a position. When she runs into an old flame, she questions the stability of her current relationship. Will Renee be able to prove her love for Ben to the city before her wedding falls apart? Who will Eva choose on her own emotional roller coaster? Hilarity ensues as the wedding of the decade melts into the disaster of the year. Because everyone knows weeds take over every garden…

http://www.amazon.com/After-Final-Dandelion-Book-ebook/dp/B01D688DP6/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1460397370&sr=1-1&keywords=after+the+final+dandelion 

Danele: Brooke, thank you so much for being with us today! I’ve really enjoyed talking with you.

Brooke: And I’ve enjoyed your unique questions and your overall approach to life! It’s my honor to be on your blog…truly!!

 

Friends, Brooke Williams is such a wonderful person. She approaches life with joy, and her joy spills over into her books. If you would like to learn more about Brooke or her books, please follow the links below. I hope you have a wonderful day!

https://www.facebook.com/AuthorBrookeWilliams/

http://www.authorbrookewilliams.com/

Paula Mowery #2–Author Interview

Dear Friends,

It’s my honor to welcome Paula Mowery back to my blog. Paula is such a terrific person. She is a pastor’s wife who interprets her husband’s sermons into sign language for the deaf. I talk with Paula often, and I have to say that she is one of the nicest, sweetest people that I know. I feel very blessed to call her a friend.

Danele: Paula, I’m so glad to have another chance to interview you!

Paula: Danele, thanks for hosting me again. You’ve become a dear friend and sister in Christ, even though we’ve never met in person. You are an inspiration, and it is an honor to visit with you and your readers.

Danele: Thank you! I feel the same about you, and I’m really looking forward to learning more about you! Can you tell us how being a Christian has influenced your writing?

Paula: My writing is a calling from God, thus being a Christian has greatly influenced my writing. I try to be sensitive to God’s leading in the messages and themes revealed in every story I write. Writing is considered a ministry to me. Ultimately, I want all of my words to bring glory to God and at the same time to encourage the reader towards a better relationship with Christ.

Danele: That’s wonderful, Paula! Here’s another question for you—I’ve heard some people say that the Bible isn’t relevant for us today. Can you explain why you think it is important for Christians to read their Bibles?

Paula: The Bible is the living Word of God. That means it isn’t like any other book we might pick up. It speaks to us where we are today, at this very moment. I can give you a little experiment to test this. There is a Proverb chapter for every day of the month. Read the chapter that coincides with the day of the month. (On the 2^nd of the month, read chapter 2.) Pray each day that the Lord will show you something from the reading. Somehow mark what stands out to you. Repeat the next month. Here is what this experiment revealed to me. When I returned the second month to read each chapter, a different verse stood out. Often I didn’t remember the verse being in the chapter. Many times the verse I had marked from the month before held little or no meaning now. What does this show? God’s Word is living. It speaks to us specifically every time we read it.

Danele: I love that answer! While we are discussing things, can you tell us why you think it is important for people to go to church?

Paula: Sweet brothers and sisters in Christ, you must follow God’s mandate to keep the Sabbath holy and not forsake the gathering of the saints. In a world as dark as ours, we need a place to gather with other “light-carriers.” We need those moments of fellowshipping with our fellow Christians and spurring each other on. We need the equipping found in Sunday school and discipleship. We need the worship time together as we sing and open God’s Word. Our church attendance also shows the priority we place on God. Let’s face it, our children are watching as well as our co-workers and friends. Your priorities are evidenced in how you spend your time. We need to recognize our church as a gift from God and treat it accordingly.

Danele: That’s so true! Church is such an important part of the Christian walk. Some of my favorite memories were made in church—and some of my funniest ones too. Is there a funny story from church that you can share?

Paula: My husband is a pastor, and I interpret his sermons for the deaf members of our church. I will never forget when he preached a sermon on fears. He proceeded to call out these long names of phobias and then move over next to my stool and say to the congregation, “Let’s see how the interpreter does with these words.”

Danele: Oh, Paula, you just made me giggle! I can just imagine you trying to sign a word like arachibutyrophobia (the fear of peanut butter getting stuck to the roof of your mouth) or hippopotomonstrosesquippedaliophobia (the fear of long words).

Paula: It wasn’t the last time he has done something to me like that in the middle of his sermon. The congregation sure gets a kick out of him ribbing me like that.

Danele: I can imagine so!! That’s so funny!! I love to laugh, and I love to smile, but I know that life sometimes has a sad side too. Has God ever delivered you from a time of great sadness?

Paula: When my husband was in his last couple of years of seminary, we decided to start trying to have a baby. We both loved children and had worked with them in various capacities in ministry and secularly. Nothing was happening. Some tests later, my doctor informed me that I had Polycystic Ovarian Disease. She also told me that it would be more difficult for me to conceive but not impossible. Let’s just say I went through a lot of bitterness and depression while trying to have a baby. I had very strong feelings of dislike for those women who accidently ended up pregnant. Through infertility medication, I finally conceived and brought my only daughter into the world. Fast forward to just a couple of years ago. God nudged me to become the devotional leader at our pregnancy center. I questioned God on this one, “Do You remember my feelings? I’m not so sure they aren’t still there.” Well, needless to say, I took on the job. I learned that my feelings toward these women and girls were wrong. They each had a story. And my job was to show them the unconditional love of Christ. This is some of what inspired The Crux of Honor.

Danele: That’s beautiful, Paula. I love how God can turn our hardest trials into points of ministry. Is there anything else that God is speaking to your heart that you would like to share?

Paula: One theme in The Crux of Honor that I hope readers will discover is the unconditional love of God. Some people today have a hard time believing in this kind of love from God because those closest to them have not shown them this love. When a person has a parent who doesn’t display this kind of unconditional love to him or her, that person might doubt that God could love them in this way. In The Crux of Honor the main character struggles with this as well as feeling that there is no way she deserves God’s forgiveness. The very person (her mother) she needed to model these characteristics fails her. I want people to know that God is a God of forgiveness and unconditional love. You can trust Him even when others fail to model His traits. Humans fail but God never does and never will.

Danele: I’m so glad that you brought up your new book. I know it was released just a few days ago, and I’d love for you to tell us more about it. Can you share the back cover blurb and a purchasing link?

Paula: Sure! Chelsea Wilson’s life is a constant reminder of what living dishonorably looks like. At every turn she continues to prove her mother’s shunning must be deserved. Dr. Kevin Alley returns to the old home place to establish his medical practice. After running into Chelsea, he knows his love for her is still strong. Chelsea is ousted from her small rented room when her mother bursts in, proclaiming Chelsea’s pregnancy. Kevin takes Chelsea in, giving her space to live on the upper level of his house. When Chelsea’s baby displays life-threatening symptoms, Chelsea must face her mother. Secrets unfold about Chelsea’s parents. Can Chelsea and Kevin uncover the secrets linked to Amish heritage in time to save the baby? Can the two find love together despite their history? Here’s the Amazon link: http://www.amazon.com/Crux-Honor-Paula-Mowery-ebook/dp/B01BW1MAEE/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1461712289&sr=8-1&keywords=crux+of+honor

Danele: Before I let you go, can you give us a list of all the books you’ve written?

Paula: The Blessing Seer, Be The Blessing, Forgiven in the Brave New Century anthology, Legacy and Love, Love Again, For Our Good, and The Crux of Honor.

Danele: Paula, thank you so much for taking the time to talk with us! It has been such a pleasure speaking with you again.

Paula: Thank you so much for allowing me to share with you and your readers.

 

Friends, Paula is a delightful person. She is incredibly kind and warmhearted. If you would like to learn more about her or her books, please follow the link below. I hope you have a wonderful day!

www.paulamowery.blogspot.com