BEYOND THE VALLEY - Rita Gerlach - One Free Book

Readers, don't forget to follow the instructions at the end of the post to be included in the giveaway.

Welcome back, Rita. Tell us about Beyond the Valley, which released this February.

I loved writing all three of the novels in the Daughters of the Potomac series. But I would have to say Beyond the Valley was my favorite. The heroine, Sarah, resonates with me on so many levels. She is a wife and expectant mother, a loyal friend, a grieving widow. Her faith is shown in a way relevant to the times she lived in, not just a Sunday Christian, but a virtuous woman whose daily walk with God required ultimate trust, though her trials cause her to question. All three heroines reflect these values, Eliza, Darcy, and Sarah.

Can you share a brief synopsis of the story with us?

When Sarah Carr's husband Jamie drowns, her young life is shattered and takes a turn that she never expected. Pregnant and widowed, she reaches out to Jamie’s family for help, but they are unwilling. Instead they devise a plan to have her kidnapped through deception and taken to the Colonies to live a life of servitude.

In Virginia, Sarah is auctioned to a kindly gentleman to serve his eccentric wife. After she meets Dr. Alex Hutton, and is loaned to him to help with his orphaned nieces, hope comes alive he will find a way to free her. But when the Woodhouses go bankrupt and sell off all they own, Sarah is sent away. She faces hardships in the wilderness, and is soon surrounded by a family’s whirlwind of secrets, praying the young doctor she loves will find her again and bring her freedom.

If Beyond the Valley was made into a movie, which actors would you chose for the main characters?

You had a cyber tea party for Beyond the Valley. What is your favorite tea?

I really like lemon tea. It’s refreshing on a cold day and iced it reminds me of summer. And who doesn’t want to be reminded of summer when it’s freezing outside?

What was the most surprising thing you learned while writing Beyond the Valley?

That there were cougars in the western Maryland mountains. I could not imagine it. But while researching this fact, I found out that the Department of Natural Resources has placed some cougars back into the mountains to bring the deer population down.

What is new in publishing for you?

I just reissued three novels in the last year. The first is The Rebel’s Pledge.  Thorns in Eden and The Everlasting Mountains are a two in one collection which we featured on this blog earlier this year. All three books are historical romances with lots of adventure.

Thank you, Rita, for sharing this new book with us.

Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.

Beyond the Valley: Daughters of the Potomac | Book 3 - paperback
Beyond the Valley: Daughters of the Potomac #3 - Kindle

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)

Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.

The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

If you’re reading this on Google +, Feedblitz, Facebook, Linkedin, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment if you want to be included in the drawing. Here’s a link.
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THE MOSES CONSPIRACY - Susan J Reinhardt - One Free Ebook

Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.

Like me, Ellie Zimmerman in The Moses Conspiracy is passionate about her faith, family, and country. The other characters have totally different personalities. A critical element to any story are believable, individual people. I don't want them to be clones of yours truly.

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

I'm not a quirky-type person, so this question has me stumped. Does wearing a conservative outfit with wild socks count?

Sounds a little quirky to me. When did you first discover that you were a writer?

For years, I wrote Christmas pieces, skits, Bible Studies, and Sunday School curriculum, but never considered myself as a writer with a capital "W." About 10 years ago, my late husband urged me to seek publication. When an editor requested a devotional, it dawned on me that I was indeed a real writer.

Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.

My reading tastes range from Romance to Christian Speculative Fiction. I also enjoy suspense, mystery, and contemporary novels. Some of my favorite authors include Tamera Alexander, Cathy Gohlke, Kathi Macias, James L. Rubart, and the early works of Frank Peretti to name a few.

How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?

I start my mornings with prayer, Bible reading, and journaling. They set the course for my day and help me maintain peace.

Lists also keep my day from spinning out of control. As a blogger, I make an effort to stay a month ahead with my posts. Scheduling and organization are great stress reducers.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

At times, a name just comes to me. Researching surnames online is another way I choose names. I discovered the name, "Zimmerman," means "carpenter." Since the husband in The Moses Conspiracy is a carpenter, the name was a perfect fit.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

I'd have to say writing and getting The Moses Conspiracy published fits that description.

The inspiration for the story occurred in Gettysburg. I "heard" the voices of the forefathers as fading echoes. My late husband and I were discussing that experience eight months later when he declared, "That's it. That's your book, and you'll write it in four months, and call it Ghosts of the Past."

In exactly four months, the first draft was written. The names changed from Ghosts of the Past to Echoes of the Past. Later, it became The Moses Conspiracy.

Shortly after this initial draft, my husband was diagnosed with leukemia and died within two years. The vision for the story and the desire to dedicate it to his memory gave me the strength and motivation to reach the goal.

If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?

I'd like to be a lamb because of its dependence on the shepherd. Jesus uses that analogy in the Word, and I know how much I need Him in every area of life.

What is your favorite food?

I'm part Italian and love that cuisine. Meatballs and spaghetti are my favorite entree.

What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?

When I started The Moses Conspiracy, my fiction-writing was miniscule. The learning curve was a steep one. I overcame this deficit by attending writers’ conferences, reading books and blogs, and asking my critique partners to look at my work.

Tell us about the featured book.

A trip to post-terrorized Washington, D.C. in 2025 and a buggy accident in Bird-in-Hand, Pennsylvania set in motion events that expose a diabolical plan to destroy the Christian community. Ellie and John Zimmerman find themselves embroiled in a life-threatening investigation, fighting a shadowy enemy.

Please give us the first page of the book.

The last thing she needed was to lose her way in Washington, D.C. She hoped the "See D.C. 2025" commercials weren't all hype. Ellie Zimmerman's hands clenched the van's steering wheel. A quick glance into the rearview mirror reassured her Peter didn't sense her growing nervousness.

A truck barreled past her, kicking up water from the wet road. She turned on the windshield wipers to clear away the fine mist. The sign for her exit came up, and she exhaled.

Would the fears from past experience ever stop dictating her present reactions? She slid her hand into a bag of M&M's and popped several into her mouth. Maybe they would get rid of the metallic taste anxiety triggered.

A United Nations' checkpoint came into view. Her stomach tightened into a knot. Relax, Ellie. The congressman sent passes for the White House Tour, and John double-checked the preparations before you left. He'd pronounced them in order.

I can’t wait to read this. I’ve been on a White House Tour, but it was in 1964. I’m sure things are very different today, and in the future will be more so. How can readers find you on the Internet?

Blog:  http://www.susanjreinhardt.com

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/AuthorSusanJReinhardt

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/susan.j.reinhardt

Thank you, Susan, for sharing your life and book with us today.

Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
The Moses Conspiracy - paperback
The Moses Conspiracy - A Novel - Kindle

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)

Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.

The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

If you’re reading this on Google +, Feedblitz, Facebook, Linkedin, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment if you want to be included in the drawing. Here’s a link.
Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com

THE HEART STONE - Sherry Kyle - One Free Book

Welcome back, Sherry. Why do you write the kind of books you do?

I’m passionate about writing nonfiction books for girls ages 8-12 to connect them to their faith as well as novels for women that reconnect lives. I enjoy writing in these two genres and feel blessed to have been published in both.

Besides when you came to know the Lord, what is the happiest day in your life?

I have to pick one? There have been many happy days, like the day I married my college sweetheart almost twenty-five years ago on July 9th, or the day each of my kids were born or adopted. Another extremely happy day is when I received the phone call that my first novel was going to be published. I came home from a writers’ lunch and saw the answering machine blinking. I listened to my agent’s message three times before I ran around the house screaming.

How has being published changed your life?

I’m a lot busier now. Once published, there is a book at every stage. Besides writing the books themselves, I need to carve out time to market through social media. I’m also a mom to a twenty year old who still lives at home, and three active teenagers (17, 16, and 13). My life is a fun, crazy ride!

What are you reading right now?

Bridging Two Hearts by Michelle Ule.

What is your current work in progress?

My current work in progress is another contemporary women’s fiction/romance titled Capture Me about a young woman who discovers an old photograph in a trunk.

What would be your dream vacation?

My dream vacation would be to go to Paris, The City of Love and Lights. Besides the Eiffel Tower, I’d like to see famous landmarks, such as the Chateau de Versailles, Notre Dame, Arc de Triomphe, and the Musee de Louvre.

When I graduated from college, French was my second teaching field. I’ve always wanted to go to Paris. How do you choose your settings for each book?

Since I live in California, I set all my books in real towns along the California coast.

If you could spend an evening with one person who is currently alive, who would it be and why?

Jim Caviezel. Need I say more?

What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading?

I love real estate, I always have. I enjoy looking up houses on the web and going to open houses on the weekend. One of my favorite websites is www.houzz.com for decorating ideas, and www.realtor.com to look up homes for sale. I also regularly watch House Hunters on HGTV.

I used to go to open houses a lot, but I don’t much anymore. What is your most difficult writing obstacle, and how do you overcome it?

I always seem to hit a wall midway through writing a novel. The term sagging middle is a well-known problem for authors who write by the “seat of their pants,” like me. Because of this, I rewrite a lot. I’m thankful when readers say they can’t put my books down. I must be doing something right!

What advice would you give to a beginning author?

Attend conferences and workshops. Network with those in the writing community. Join groups, such as American Christian Fiction Writers to connect with those seeking publication, as well as a critique group to hone your craft and sharpen your skills. I’ve been writing for a decade and I continue to do all of the above. As a writer, you’re never done learning and growing.

That is so true. Tell us about the featured book.

The Heart Stone is a contemporary story with romance and a hint of mystery about a single mother running from the unwanted calls from her son’s biological father, and a widow’s search for her first love. On their separate journeys to find hope and forgiveness, the women discover that one heart-shaped ring binds their stories together. You can watch a book trailer here: http://bit.ly/X5wEMH

Please give us the first page of the book.

Jessi, it’s Andrew . . . Andrew Lawson.”

At the sound of his voice, Jessica MacAllister’s knees went limp and her palms grew moist. She sat down on the wooden stool near the kitchen counter and leaned her head on her hand, her elbow resting against the cold tile. Why was he calling? She hadn’t heard from him since he signed the papers relinquishing his rights to Jacob six years before.

“Jessi, you there?”

She fought the urge to hang up the phone. “I’m here.”

“I want to see him.”

Her heart beat a strange rhythm. She had prayed this day would never come. “Andrew, I—I—I don’t know,” she stuttered. As a speech pathologist, she prided herself on her communication skills, but this man could trip her up regardless of her training.

“We can meet at a park. I’ll sit at a distance and watch.” The desperation in his voice was palpable.

Jessica’s jaw clenched and her stomach churned. How could she trust that he wouldn’t rush up to Jacob and tell him that he was his biological father? Or worse, what if he wasn’t sober? His behavior when he was drunk could be ... No. She wouldn’t let a man who had no part in Jacob’s upbringing suddenly waltz into his life—especially someone who had shown her the ways of the world. But Andrew wasn’t entirely to blame. She’d given in.

“No. No, that won’t work.” Jessica ran her hand through her shoulder-length hair.

“How about a restaurant? I’ll eat at a separate table. I only want to see our son.”

Our son. Jacob was not their son. He was hers and hers only. Andrew wasn’t there for her when she was pregnant or gave birth. He’d never been there. Why the sudden interest now?

I can’t wait to read it. How can readers find you on the Internet?

I’d love for you to visit my website at www.sherrykyle.com. You can also find me on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.

Thank you, Sherry, for sharing this new book with us.

Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
The Heart Stone - paperback
The Heart Stone - Kindle


Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)

Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.

The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

If you’re reading this on Google +, Feedblitz, Facebook, Linkedin, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment if you want to be included in the drawing. Here’s a link.
Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com

DISCOVERING THE CITY OF SODOM - Latayne C Scott - One Free Book

Once again, readers, we're featuring a fascinating non-fiction book many of you will enjoy. Because this author also writes fiction, it's an interesting read.

And don't forget that you have to follow all instructions at the bottom to be included for a chance at the giveaway.

Welcome back, Latayne. What would you like for our readers to know about you personally?

I am not a woman who decided to write, I was a writer long before I was a woman. I won my first award for writing – an essay on fire prevention—in the third grade. My passion, or even need, to write has come to the forefront recently. Because of a serious illness my husband has, I’ve not been able to work on anything other than short writing projects for over a year. My soul is thirsty right now for solitude and writing.

Tell us about your family.

I’ve been married for almost 40 years, and we have two wonderful adult children who have shown their impeccable wisdom and their love for me by giving me the most adorable four grandchildren in the world.

Have you written other nonfiction books?

Yes, I have. My first book was published by Zondervan in 1979. It told the story—and the reasons—behind my departure from Mormonism. This book, The Mormon Mirage, is unique because it has gone through three highly-updated editions and is still in print now, 35 years after its first edition.

In addition, I have had about fifteen other non-fiction books published. I say “about fifteen” because I’m never really sure how many—whether you count as a single book the ones which have been revised and published under other titles, for instance, which is the case with several of my books.

Do you have any other books in the works right now?

My first full-length work of fiction, Latter-day Cipher, was released in 2009—and you were one of the first and most enthusiastic reviewers of it, Lena. I’ll always be grateful to you for that. For those not familiar with it, I could describe Cipher as a literary suspense novel centered around murders involving Mormonism and its secret codes and practices.

I guess you could say I got “fiction fever,” for, although I next published a non-fiction, I have written part or most of five other novels which are yet to be published. One of them is the novel, A Conspiracy of Breath, that I believe is the crowning achievement of my life, but it’s controversial and may never be published by a traditional publisher.

What kinds of hobbies and leisure activities do you enjoy?

I enjoy “soft” science fiction movies, especially those about time travel and parallel realities. I guess that’s because I would love to have several aspects of my life reversed. And one of the reasons I cling to my faith in Jesus is that I believe He and He alone can give me back years that locusts have eaten and literally change my sinful past by His blood.

Why did you write the featured book?

My co-author, esteemed archaeologist Dr. Steven Collins, has been a colleague and friend for years and has met with me about once a year for several years telling me we should write this book together. So we finally did! And what a pleasure and joy it was.

My husband is reading it right now and loving it. When he’s finished, I get my turn. What do you want the reader to take away from the book?

Lena, I hate to suppose this, but I wonder if more people aren’t looking at and talking about this book because they don’t want to be labeled as homophobic. Of course, anyone who reads it finds that it is about archaeology, not about social issues at all. In fact, the discussion of the sexual practices of the Sodomites takes up only a couple of sentences in the 75,000 words of the manuscript.

I don’t think the Christian world has “gotten it” in terms of how game-changing this book is. The book chronicles a major archaeological discovery, that of the biblical city of Sodom. Biblical Archaeology Review just ran an article about it. What is so amazing is that the massive city has been in the same place for centuries, but for the last hundred or so years of professional archaeology, nobody looked where the Bible said it was because of other “theories.”

What’s the take-away? If the Bible can be shown to be reliable in its geography, maybe the world should take some of its doctrines and teachings seriously, too.

Since I love your writing, I know this book will be a very good read. Where on the Internet can the readers find you?

Well, the ladies of www.NovelMatters.com (five other Christian fiction writers) and I blog together, and we also have over 6000 followers on Facebook. But if you’re interested in my writing alone, you can find out about Mormonism, writing, and other subjects at www.Latayne.com .

Come see me! Ask me questions!

Thank you, Latayne, for sharing this important book with us.

Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
Discovering the City of Sodom: The Fascinating, True Account of the Discovery of the Old Testament's Most Infamous City - paperback

Discovering the City of Sodom: The Fascinating, True Account of the Discovery of the Old Testament's Most Infamous City - Kindle


Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)

Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.

The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

If you’re reading this on Google +, Feedblitz, Facebook, Linkedin, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment if you want to be included in the drawing. Here’s a link.
Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com

WINNERS!!!!!

Brittany (TX) is the winner of It Happened at the Fair by Deeanne Gist.  
Mary Ellen (PA) is the winner of Adoring Addie by Leslie Gould. 
Rose (GA) is the winner of When a Secret Kills by Lynette Eason. 
Vera (NC) is the winner of Once Upon a Prince by Rachel Houck.
Jean K (FL) is the winner of Pastor's Wives by Lisa Takeuchi Cullen.  

If you won a book and you like it, consider giving the author the courtesy of writing a review on Goodreads, Amazon.com, Christianbooks.com, Barnes and Noble, or other Internet sites. 

Also, tell your friends about the book ... and this blog. Thank you.

Congratulations, everyone. If you won a print book, send me your mailing address:
Click the Contact Me link at the top of the blog, and send me an Email.
If you won the ebook, just let me know what email address it should be sent to.
When you contact me, please give the title of the book you won, so I won't have to look it up.

Remember, you have 4 weeks to claim your book.

If you didn't win and you plan to order the book, please use the link provided on the individual interview. By using that link when you order, you will help support this blog.

MARY'S BLESSING Is a Selah Award Finalist

We're taking a short break from our regularly scheduled author interviews today for my special announcement.

My McKenna's Daughters Series is about identical triplets born on one of the last wagon trains on the Oregon Trail. Their mother dies giving birth, and they're separated. The girls don't find out that they have sisters until near their eighteenth birthday. Each book is one sister's story.

If you haven't read these stories, you'll want to start with book one, Maggie's Journey, and read them in order.

Maggie's Journey, which released in late 2011, received the Selah Award for Historical Novel from the Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writers Conference. I thank the Lord for that special blessing. The conference contest director announced this year's finalists in a podcast last Friday.

Mary's Blessing, which released in 2012, is a finalist in the Romance Novel category. There are only three finalists in this contest, so I feel blessed by finaling in this contest again. The winners will be announced on Wednesday, and they are streaming it live. I'll be watching. If anyone else wants to watch with me, it will start at 7 pm Central time. Here's the link: http://ridgecrestconferencecenter.org/christian-writers-live

Catherine's Pursuit, the last book in the series, released in February.

Here's what some people are saying about the McKenna's Daughters Series books:

Lena Nelson Dooley’s stories always satisfy, and Maggie’s Journey is certainly no exception! She’ll grab you on page one with characters and events that reflect real-life joys and heartaches that change the characters forever and won’t let go until you’ve read “The End.” Make room on your “keepers” shelf for this first title in the MeKenna’s Daughters series! —Loree Lough Best-Selling Author of Eighty Award-Winning Books, Including From Ashes to Honor, Book 1 in the First Responders Series

Maggie’s Journey is the beautifully written story of a young woman on a journey to discover both her past . . . and her future. Lena Nelson Dooley’s sensory tale will pull readers in and make them glad they’ve taken the time to travel alongside Maggie. —Janice Hanna Thompson Author of Love Finds You in Groom, Texas


For a poignant story of hardship, heartaches, and happiness in late nineteenth-century Oregon, look no further than Mary’s Blessing by Lena Nelson Dooley. In this, the second of her McKenna’s Daughters 

series, Dooley treats readers to the story of a young woman, long 

burdened with familial responsibilities, and the well-intentioned but 

sometimes clueless man who loves her. More than just a love story, 

this is the tale of two characters’ journey to maturity and faith. 

—Amanda Cabot

Author of Summer of Promise and Christmas Roses

Mary’s Blessing is an emotional tale of a determined young woman desperately trying to care for her family in the midst of tragic circumstances. Heartache, joy, drama, and a sweet romance will tug at

your heartstrings and leave you smiling in the end. Keep a hanky handy. —Vickie McDonough

Award-winning author of End of the Trail and the Texas Boardinghouse Brides series

Delightful! Catherine’s Pursuit swept me away. My heart ached with Catherine’s longing . . . and then rejoiced at her numerous discoveries—of family, of love. A well-written book that’s worth the read!
—Tricia Goyer Best-selling author of thirty-four books, including The Memory Jar


From the docks of San Francisco to the forested slopes of Oregon City, Lena Nelson Dooley crafts a touching tale of one woman’s discovery of long-lost triplet sisters and 

the search that sweeps both her and the reader away on a 

magical journey of faith, family, and love. — 

Julie Lessman

Award-winning author of The Daughters of Boston and Winds of Change series

Lena Nelson Dooley weaves a fascinating tale of a young woman facing one family crisis after another while questioning who she is and the sincerity of the young man who professes to love her but 

seems more interested in controlling her life. 

—Henry McLaughlin Award-winning author of Journey to Riverbend

THORNS IN EDEN and THE EVERLASTING MOUNTAINS - Rita Gerlach - One Free Ebook

Welcome back, Rita. Why do you write the kind of books you do?

I write them because I love storytelling, whether in the written word or verbally. My mother influenced me as a child with all the stories she would tell us about growing up during the Depression. It caught on to me. I love to write stories that transport me, as the writer first, back in time. I enjoy exploring the time period, how people lived, dressed, what their culture was like and how it affected them. I suppose many a writer would agree we live another life in our stories …we are the fly on the wall…the ear to the wall, or we live through our characters.

I’ve been asked to categorize my fiction. My books are not formula romances. They are what I like to call Inspirational Historical Dramas. You will find romance, but you will also find stories about relationships between people, stories about forgiveness, redemption, faith, and loyalty.

That’s why I call my books Romantic Historical Fiction, because I deal with deep issues as well. Besides when you came to know the Lord, what is the happiest day in your life?

It’s a tossup between the day I married Paul, and when I gave birth to my sons. Those events were major turning points in my life that gave me such joy I can’t express it into words.

How has being published changed your life?

It’s made me work harder. I can tell you it isn’t glamorous like some people may think. There are no crowds of cheering fans and flashing camera blubs, not long lines around the block at book signings, no calls to be on talk shows, which are all fine with me. I am a shy individual to tell you the truth. I roll up my sleeves and write, market, and answer emails, in the mornings into late afternoon. I forget sometimes to eat lunch and laundry piles up. But life is good, a true blessing I wouldn’t trade in for the world.

What are you reading right now?

MaryLu Tyndall’s newest release Forsaken Dreams.

I love that book. What is your current work in progress?

I am very excited about moving into a different time period than my other books. I’m writing an Edwardian / Gilded Age novel set in opulent Chevy Chase, Maryland, and the western part of that state, entitled After the Rain.

Be sure to contact me about featuring it on the blog. What would be your dream vacation?

A few months in the UK, renting a car, staying at village bed and breakfast inns, exploring places where my books are set.

How do you choose your settings for each book?

I draw upon places I have been that take my breath away. I live in a historically rich area. The Potomac River and surrounding historical towns and landmarks are very inspirational. Everyone has heard about Harper’s Ferry. Across from the town on the Maryland side, is the setting for Thorns In Eden and The Everlasting Mountains. I love the peaceful beauty of this area and the surrounding countryside. Thorns In Eden begins in Cornwall, England, a place I have never been but have been drawn to ever since I watched the series Poldark.

If you could spend an evening with one person who is currently alive, who would it be and why?

This might be a long-winded answer, so forgive me. I’m assuming the person would be someone outside my family and circle of friends and acquaintances.  Honestly, after thinking about this, I don’t know. My idea of a good evening spent with someone would be chatting in front of a fire having coffee and dessert. I’d like to meet Queen Elizabeth, but I doubt it would be on those terms. I wouldn’t mind meeting one of the last of the silver screen stars, Olivia de Havilland, but a late evening might be too much for her at her age. So, based on the dream vacation I answered above, and the fact I can’t nail down just one person to spend an evening with, I would say I’d spend it with a group of local ACFW writers, and have my son make sushi for us and tiramisu for dessert…And if I do get to the UK, I’d like to spend the evening with my fan Wendy Jones and her writers group.

What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading?

I enjoy hiking with my husband, exploring out of the way places in the country, especially historical places. I use to cross stitch but my eyes are not good enough anymore, nor my patience. I also quilted, and have my last quilt sitting on the floor beside my desk begging to be finished. I say my last because I have made enough and I don’t have the time to devote to it like I once did.

What is your most difficult writing obstacle, and how do you overcome it?

I’m sure other writers will agree rejections, the doors that never seemed to want to open. I came to a point though, that I relinquished my writing career over to God. When I did that, I was at peace about where I was going with it, where my books would land, whether I’d be published or not. That’s when doors started opening. I’ve gone in several different directions, traditionally published with a major Christian publisher, and on my own to reissue novels that have been out of print for a while. When I do face an obstacle, I take a deep breath, and depending on the severity of it, I move on either after a few tears or a shrug.

What advice would you give to a beginning author?

Be very, very patient with your writing career. Write because you enjoy it, and learn the craft. Also read about the publishing business and what it entails. That way you will know what to expect.

Tell us about the featured volume.

Thorns In Eden and The Everlasting Mountains were originally published separately in 2003 through a print on demand company. They have been out of print since 2005—long story. Anyway, my previous editor and agent recommended I revise these books into a 2-in-1 collection and publish them to Kindle/Create Space. It was great fun working on this project. I found the perfect model for the cover and my son designed it, my husband uploaded and formatted the book.

Here is the synopsis.

John Nash journeys back to England before the first shots of the Revolution are fired. Rebecah Brent, a young woman who has known little more than the solitude of an isolated manor, gives him her heart.

Can Nash protect his wife from a man who has no allegiance to any nation, tribe, or creed, wanted for robbery and murder, who has vowed vengeance? In Thorns In Eden and The Everlasting Mountains, love and faith are the sustaining forces that cannot be overtaken by the vines of adversity.

Please give us the first page of the book.

Ashburne House, Cornwall, England

September 1773

Rebecah Brent drew her legs beneath her and glanced over at the jittery servant sitting in the armchair next to the fire. She tried to appear unmoved by the storm’s rage thinking it would calm Margery Holmes, but every time thunder boomed, her breath snatched and she gripped the letter harder in her hand.

“Oh, this storm…my poor nerves,” Margery muttered. “Dear me…the wind…It seeps straight through the windows.”

“I’m sorry, Margery. What did you say?”

Margery pulled her woolen shawl tighter across her shoulders and shivered. “The wind—it blows through the windows.”

Rebecah folded the letter closed that had come earlier. “Ashburne is an old house. Drafts are to be expected.”

Sighing, Margery stood and tidied the room though it was already neat. Everything was in its place, with a place for everything. Rebecah knew the woman’s nerves were on edge and keeping busy gave her ease. But when lightning flashed, she jumped.

“Heavens!” Margery dropped a pillow on the floor, retrieved it and held it against her bosom.

How can readers find you on the Internet?

My website is http://ritagerlach.blogspot.com/

I am also on Facebook.

Thank you, Rita, for sharing this book with us.

Readers, here’s a link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.
Thorns in Eden and The Everlasting Mountains


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