Southern-Style Meet & Greet with Terri Blackstock (Plus Giveaway)

Back a couple of months ago, I had the pleasure of meeting not one, but TWO, great Christian suspense authors.  The first one (Brandilyn Collins) stopped by for a Meet & Greet of her own a few weeks ago, and author number 2 is here with me today.  :o)

I have been reading Terri's books since I first started reading Christian fiction, and in my expert opinion, she has gotten better and better with every single book.  Her latest series about drug addiction has really taken off like a rocket, and I've talked to several people who have really enjoyed them immensely.  I was so very excited to be able to meet her in person, and as a fellow Southerner, answer a few questions for me about her books and thoughts on the South.  I hope y'all will give Terri a very warm welcome!

***

When did you first know you wanted to be a writer?
 
I knew when I was eleven years old. After my dad got home from Vietnam, I wrote a poem about the war, and my mother sent it in to our local newspaper. They published it, and I was so thrilled. From that moment on, I knew that writing was what I wanted to do with my life.

What genre do you most like to write?

I mainly focus on suspense, because that’s what I like to read the most. I have a short attention span, so books that I read and write have to have a lot happening to keep me engaged.  

I love your suspense, but when you venture to write a women's fiction novel, I'm in heaven.  *sigh*  Couldn't get enough of your series of books with Beverly LaHaye! 

What do you hope readers take away with them after they read one of your books?

I want them to understand the depth of God’s love for them and His provision through every circumstance. While my books are crafted to be fast-paced thrillers, I weave a message of redemption and hope, and a strong thread of good versus evil, throughout each book. I’m a firm believer that God gives us crises for a purpose, and that crises often bring profound blessings. It’s important to me to show that through characters who are suffering or in danger, and while they often don’t have things together spiritually, the reader can follow their growth arc throughout the story and come away with a feeling of hope for their own trials.  

What is your latest book release?

My latest release is Downfall, Book 3 in my Intervention Series. The series is about a family struggling with a loved one who has addictions, and it was inspired by my own journey with my daughter’s addictions. The series takes the reader through the character arcs of these family members as they deal with the addictions, the potential relapses, and the danger surrounding addictions. Intervention (Book 1) and Vicious Cycle (Book 2) were both New York Times Best-Sellers.

In Book 3, Downfall, Emily has turned her life around, but her family still has trouble trusting her. Though Emily has committed herself to a year-long treatment program and has been sober for almost a year beyond that, even her mother walks on egg shells around her, fearing she’ll relapse. After her behavior during her drug years, Emily realizes she has a lot to prove.

When police discover a home-made bomb under Emily’s car, and she then learns the wife of one of her friends was murdered that same morning, she knows things are deadly serious. But who wants Emily dead? And why? A conversation she had with two men, an Alfred Hitchcock movie, and a plan for a double-murder all conspire for one explosive ride...and Emily is the only one who can identify the killer and save the life of the next potential victim. As she frantically works to solve this ever more complicated puzzle, Emily finds herself playing right into the killer’s hands. To buy or read an excerpt, go to http://www.terriblackstock.com/books/adult-fiction-books/the-intervention-series/. 

Are you currently working on another novel, and if so, can you give us a snippet about it?
 
I’ve just finished the first book in my new series. It’s called Truth-Stained Lies, and it’s part of the Moonlighters Series. It won’t release until February of next year, but I’m having so much fun with it. The series is about three sisters--a blogger, a stay-at-home mom, and a ne’er-do-well taxi driver--who wind up moonlighting as private detectives to solve some crimes related to their family. In the first book, their brother is accused of murdering his wife in order to win custody of their son. But the killer staged the scene so that the truth is too ludicrous to be believed. How can they prove their brother’s innocence when the lies make more sense than the truth? When their five-year-old nephew is kidnapped, their urgency ramps up. Since the police don’t believe the truth, it’s up to the sisters to find the killer and stop the madness.

Wow...sounds like another winner!!  

Where can readers find you on the web?
 
www.terriblackstock.com 
www.facebook.com/tblackstock 
www.twitter.com/terriblackstock
 
Most people can recognize a Southerner by their accent.  Would I know what area of the country you’re from by yours?
 
You would definitely know I’m from the South, but you might not be able to place exactly where. I grew up in the Air Force, and we lived all over the place. Because of that, my accent is probably not quite as clear-cut as some of my neighbors. I’m also a little bit of a chameleon with accents. If I’m in another place for two weeks or so, I’ve been known to lose my accent entirely. 

What is your most favorite thing about the South?

The thing I love about the south is the people. They’re warmer, kinder, more empathetic, less pretentious, and when you’re in crisis, they’ll love on you with casseroles and hugs. Doing what I do, I could live anywhere. I stay in Mississippi because of those good people.

Iced Tea—sweet or un-sweet?

Un-sweet for me, usually. I’m not much of a sugar lover.

Gulf Coast beaches or the mountains of East Tennessee?

Mountains of East Tennessee. My honeymoon was in Gatlinburg. Because we live in Mississippi, we don’t like baking in the sun, so the beach doesn’t hold as much of an appeal to us as it does to others. I’m also a real red-head, so my skin has no pigmentation. I’m not a good candidate for sun tanning.

Dolly Parton or Elvis Presley?

I love them both, but there’s something about Dolly Parton’s story-telling in her songs that really moves me. I love a good story-teller.

Beignets in New Orleans or BBQ in Memphis?

These days, BBQ, because I have to be gluten-free. But I could have eaten my weight in beignets before.

It's probably a good thing that neither of us lives in New Orleans.  :o)

You, you all, or y’all?

Y’all, definitely. 

***

Terri, I can't begin to thank you enough for being my special guest today!  It was such a pleasure to meet you in person, and that much more enjoyable to have a nice little chat with you, too.  :o)  

And thanks to Terri's fabulous generosity, you have the chance to win a copy of her latest book, Downfall.  Trust me, friends...this entire series will have you burning the midnight oil more than once!  If you'd like to be included in the drawing, simply fill out the form below in its entirety by Sunday, June 24th, 11:59pm.  The winner will be selected through third-party site, random.org, and notified via email by me.  Limited to US residents only.  Odds of winning are based on the number of entrants, and I am not responsible for lost or damaged prizes.  

Good luck, y'all, and thanks for stopping by today!  Grab your glass of tea before you leave (and leave a comment down below the entry form, too, if you'd like).  :o)

Southern-Style Meet & Greet with Brandilyn Collins Plus Giveaway!

A few weeks back, I had the enormous pleasure of meeting two of my favorite authors at a book signing--Terri Blackstock and Brandilyn Collins.  Believe me, it was worth the 6 hour round trip because both of these ladies are superb writers, and truly at the top of their game in the suspense genre.  I decided to go out on a limb and see if they'd be interested in doing an interview here, and thank heavens, they both said yes.  :o) 

Up first this month is Brandilyn.  I never would've imagined such a sense of humor from someone who writes about boogeymen full-time!!  When you read our fun convo (not to mention that it's the first Southern-Style Meet & Greet that's been here in six months), you'll be able to picture Brandilyn sittin' right in front of you, talking over that glass of tea, and havin' yourself a passel full of laughs.  :o)

Oh, and as always, stay tuned to the very end for a book giveaway!

***

When did you first know you wanted to be a writer?

Can’t say exactly. I grew up in a family of writers and wordsmiths. (Don’t challenge us in Scrabble. You’ll die.) Anyway, I do remember writing a story in third grade. Oh, wait! In second grade I won the prize for the best story in the classroom! I still remember the opening line: “Once there was a stallion named Betsy.”

I’ve been trying to write with as much eloquence ever since.

Then there’s an event from my teenage years. My friends swears it’s true, although I don’t remember it. We were coming out of church. She says to me, “That was a great sermon, huh.” I shrugged. “Wouldn’t know –I wasn’t listening. I was writing a story in my head.”

Maybe I should add that the pastor was my uncle. I don’t know if this makes my reaction better or worse.

What genre do you most like to write?

You’re asking me this question? Suspense, of course! My trademarked brand is Seatbelt Suspense®. My tagline is “Don’t forget to b r e a t h e …®  My brand comes with a four-point promise:  fast-paced, character-driven suspense, with myriad twists and an interwoven thread of faith.

Okay, so I knew the answer to that question, but there might be just one person that didn't.  So...ya know...none of us have a smidge of doubt now.  :o) 

What do you hope readers take away with them after they read one of your books?

First, I want them to have been on the edge of their seats and caught up in the suspense plot.  In other words, they must feel highly entertained. If they’re not entertained, they won’t even finish the book. Second, I want them to have learned something about life. To come away with a deeper spiritual understanding of whatever faith thread is woven into the story. The best novels don’t just entertain. They give us an aha moment.

But that moment—and the faith thread in general—has to arise naturally out of the plot and who the character is. That’s why I never sit down to write a “Christian” suspense. I set down to the most rollickin’ suspense I can, knowing that somewhere along the process, the faith element will naturally present itself. This is why my readers are both Christian and non-Christian. A lot of people simply want to read a “clean” suspense.

What is your latest book release?
 

Brandilyn with the real-life Cherrie Mae!

Gone to Ground released in March.  It’s a Southern-drenched suspense. The story in a nutshell: In small-town Mississippi, six murders have occurred. Now to their horror, three women of three different generations realize they know who the killer is—someone dear to them. Independently, not talking to anyone, each woman must make the terrifying decision to bring the man down. But each woman suspects a different man.

You absolutely have to watch the trailer for Gone to Ground!  It features the three voices of my protagonists: Cherrie Mae (black, age 62), Deena (white, 35), and Tully (white, 19).  There’s a great background story about my researching in Mississippi for the story.  I met a real-life Cherrie Mae, whose name was so perfect for my character I obtained her permission to use it.  And that real-life Cherrie Mae plays the part of my character in the book trailer. She’s wonderful!

Are you currently working on another novel, and if so, can you give us a snippet about it?

When am I not working on another novel? But the novel I’m writing now isn’t the next one to release. That one, Double Blind, comes out in October.  That story in a nutshell:  When severely depressed Lisa Newberry hears of a medical trial for a tiny brain chip that can heal her, she knows it’s her last hope. But what if she receives only the placebo? What if something far worse goes wrong …?

(Hint—it’s a Brandilyn Collins Seatbelt Suspense® novel. You can bet some very bad things go wrong.)

Where can readers find you on the web?

You can read about all my books, including each one’s opening chapter, on my website. And if you’re not connected to me on Facebook—do you have any idea what you’re missing?  For one thing, you’re missing my Today’s Word.  Every day I give you an unusual word and its definition, inviting people to use it in a sentence. See how much smarter you could be? Talk about impressing your friends (and that snooty relative).  Plus you’re missing out on the deals on my books that I find on the web and pass on to readers. Third, you’re missing my unpredictable updates—maybe it’s creating a caption for Funny Foto, or a crazy event in my life (which seems to be full of them). (Recent update: “what does the death of some American Indians a couple 100 yrs. ago have to do with the sale of our home?” Pretty bizarre answer to that question.) So-come “like” me on Facebook!

Finally, I send out my Sneak Pique newsletter every other month (on even months) via email. Sneak Pique includes info about my books, plus info on the latest releases in Christian fiction. You can sign up for my newsletter here.

Most people can recognize a Southerner by their accent.  Would I know what area of the country you’re from by yours?

Okay, here’s a story. I was born in India, raised in Kentucky since the age of 2. (Yeah, well, that’s another story.) Then I moved to California at twenty-one, toting my Kentucky accent. Until I made the mistake of using the word “britches” in a sentence. The woman I was talking to looked at me like I was an alien. She made me repeat the sentence three times. Then finally said, “Oh! You mean pants.” Right then and there I resolved to rid myself of my Kentucky accent. And I did. Except when I’m in Kentucky or anywhere south of there, I find myself picking it up real easily.

Yep, there are certain...um..."words" that are native to us Southerners.  Don't go sayin' the word "holler," either...it will be interpreted several different ways down here.  :o)

Wisteria Bed and Breakfast

What is your most favorite thing about the South? 
 

I love the people! I love the culture! I’ve been to Mississippi three times for Gone to Ground, and every time have just loved the total atmosphere of the place.

By the way, when I go to Mississippi I love to stay in Wisteria Bed and Breakfast in Laurel. Lovely setting and genteel Southern owners.

Iced Tea—sweet or un-sweet?

There’s such a thing as un-sweet tea?

You're a woman after my own heart, Brandilyn!

Gulf Coast beaches or the mountains of East Tennessee?

Ooh, that’s a hard one. So much beauty in both. The beach. No, the mountains. No, the beach…

Ask me again tomorrow.

Dolly Parton or Elvis Presley?

Elvis, baby!

Beignets in New Orleans or BBQ in Memphis?

Oh, have mercy? How to answer this one? I’d say … beignets in the morning (with a latte), followed by a bbq dinner at night.

(What do you mean, I’m cheating? This is my interview, ain’t it?)

(I didn't say a word, but I guess we can allow some cheating around here.  Be good, though.)  :o)

You, you all, or y’all? 

Even in chic California, y’all is simply the best.

***

Brandilyn, thank you so much for being my guest this week!  I've said it before and I'll say it again...if no one else had a great time today, I know I did!  :o)

And just like I promised, there is a giveaway this week for Brandilyn's newest book, Gone to Ground.  Simply complete the form below with your full name, mailing addy, and email addy, and your name will be entered to win a copy!  Be sure to complete your entry before Tuesday, May 15th, 11:59 CST, if you want it to count.  :o)  Giveaway is limited to US residents only, and void where prohibited.  Odds of winning are based upon number of entrants.  I am not responsible for lost or damaged books.

And if you'd like to leave a comment for Brandilyn, scroll down just a little further past the giveaway form to the comment section, and talk 'til your heart's content.  :o)  I know she'd love to hear from you!

  

Southern-Style Meet & Greet with Suzanne Woods Fisher Plus Giveaway!

Well, looks like it's been a week or two since we met up for a Southern-Style Meet & Greet, but I'm so glad you stopped by today for a Christmas-themed visit with one of my favorite Amish authors, Suzanne Woods Fisher!

Suzanne is a bestselling author of Amish fiction and non-fiction and the host of a weekly radio program called Amish Wisdom. She has twenty books under contract with Revell--seven published, thirteen to come...she's contracted all the way into 2016. The Waiting was a finalist for a 2011 Christy Award. The Choice was finalist for a 2011 Carol Award. Amish Peace: Simple Wisdom for a Complicated World and Amish Proverbs: Words of Wisdom from the Simple Life were both finalists for the ECPA Book of the Year (2010, 2011).

Welcome, Suzanne!!
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How has becoming a successful author changed your life?

I feel very, very grateful that my books have sold well and that I have been a finalist for a number of awards—yet I don’t “feel” like a successful author. Not at all! Probably one thing that has changed for me is the paradox of a blessing: I have multiple book contracts…and that means a lot of deadlines to meet! So I am working about 70 hours a week. (Maybe more. Never less.)

If you weren’t an author, what would your dream job be and why?

I might be romanticizing this dream…but I have thought about owning and operating a B&B. My grandmother ran a small B&B and Tea Room on a beautiful piece of property in Cape Cod. (Actually...my dad always told us to avoid the hotel industry. Too much work!) I love to cook and I love to meet new people—those are the pluses. The negatives? Getting up in the night with guests who have problems.

Yeah, that wouldn't work for me, either.  I crave uninterrupted sleep (and whenever DH and I *ever* get around to kids...well, that plan will go out the window!).

How has writing about the Amish changed your perspective on our present fast-paced society?

As I researched and wrote “Amish Peace” (my first book for Revell), I found myself very affected by so many aspects of the Amish. That book became my foundation for writing credibly about these wonderful people and their culture and their faith. Even though many parts of the Amish already resonated with me (living small and simply in an uncluttered home, being financially frugal)—there was a deeper level that really touched me. Intentional forgiveness, trusting more deeply in the sovereignty of God in all matters. Really profound stuff!

Tell us a little bit about your latest release.

“A Lancaster County Christmas” is a story about two couples—one Amish, one English—whose lives intersect for 48 hours. Both couples are facing a crisis, for different reasons. And yet they both have something important to learn from each other. (And if you read Question #7, I wrote a side story about a very cool dog named Tucker and wove it into the story.)

Do you and your family share any special Christmas traditions?

We have a wonderful Swedish Christmas Eve dinner (my husband is a Viking) that I only make once a year because it’s so labor intensive. We go to church early, then gather around the table…and linger and linger and linger! Other traditions: a new jigsaw puzzle gets worked on by a roaring fire in the fireplace. The kids were given one new present before going to bed (new jammies!). Such happy memories.

What’s one of the most memorable Christmas gifts you’ve ever received?

A new puppy! I raise puppies for Guide Dogs for the Blind, and it seems as if I was often on a cycle of starting a new puppy right at Christmas. We’re on puppy #10! They’re like potato chips...you can’t stop after one. You just can’t take life too seriously when a puppy is tearing through your house with someone’s underwear in his mouth.

LOL!  My dogs are always good for a few laughs, but I must say, I'm thankful we haven't had to worry them pulling out our unmentionables to put on display! 

Do you have a favorite movie that you watch every year at Christmas?

“It’s a Wonderful Life” by Frank Cappa (who doesn’t love that movie?!).

Where can readers find you on the web?

www.suzannewoodsfisher.com and I’m on Facebook and Twitter. I really enjoy connecting with readers. It’s one of the best parts of this author gig!

And because this is a still “Southern-Style” Meet & Greet we’ll just include one bonus Southern question for today. :o)

What is your most favorite thing about the South?

For a few years, we lived in Houston (kinda southeast, isn’t it?) and I have to say the best part of living there was the people. I made some wonderful friends. Oh…and my love of iced tea started there. Only the South knows real iced tea. :)

I'm sure it'll go down in history as the *best* thing we're famous for.  (And if it doesn't, it ought to.)
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Folks, thanks to Suzanne's sweet generosity, there's one copy of her newest book, A Lancaster County Christmas that's up for grabs just in time for Christmas!  Simply fill out the form below in its entirety to be entered in the drawing.  Incomplete entries will be disqualified...sorry.  Contest is open to US addresses only, and all entries must be received by Sunday, December 18th.




Thanks so much for coming by today!  Sorry we didn't sit out on the porch for our little chat...it's too cold to do that for awhile!  :o)

Southern-Style Meet & Greet with Melanie Dickerson Plus Giveaway

I've been about to burst at the seams waiting for this week's special guest!!!  Melanie Dickerson firmly planted herself on my favorite author list with her very first book, The Healer's Apprentice, and now, she's got another medieval romance coming out next week, The Merchant's Daughter, that I'm just itching to read.  There's a *very* nice surprise in the interview for those of you that are also fans of Melanie by way of a scoop on her next book, too!

I hope y'all enjoy our Southern-Style Meet & Greet today.  Be sure to grab your glass of tea and sit awhile.  :o)

Welcome, Melanie!
__________________________________________________

When did you first know you wanted to be a writer?

I knew I wanted to be a writer when I was in 6th or 7th grade. I wrote all through high school, completing two novels, but I quit writing when I started college and only picked it back up fifteen years later.

What genre do you most like to write?

I love romance. What can I say? It’s my favorite thing to read or write. I like writing YA romances, and for now I’m only interested in writing historicals.

What do you hope readers “take away” with them after they read one of your books?

I hope readers will get a vivid picture of God’s love for them and of the way romance is supposed to be. I hope they will feel like they will see the faithfulness of God through the experiences of the characters in my book. I also hope they will feel encouraged and feel that they’ve just read a sigh-worthy love story.

Perfect description...sigh-worthy.  The Healer's Apprentice certainly filled that bill.  :o)

What is your latest book release?

The Merchant’s Daughter is my latest medieval romance and is a Beauty and the Beast story. Here is a little teaser:

An unthinkable danger. An unexpected choice.

Annabel, once the daughter of a wealthy merchant, is trapped in indentured servitude to Lord Ranulf, a recluse who is rumored to be both terrifying and beastly. Her circumstances are made even worse by the proximity of Lord Ranulf's bailiff—a revolting man who has made unwelcome advances on Annabel in the past.

Believing that life in a nunnery is the best way to escape the escalation of the bailiff's vile behavior and to preserve the faith that sustains her, Annabel is surprised to discover a sense of security and joy in her encounters with Lord Ranulf. As Annabel struggles to confront her feelings, she is involved in a situation that could place Ranulf in grave danger.

Ranulf's future, and possibly his heart, may rest in her hands, and Annabel must decide whether to follow the plans she has cherished or the calling God has placed on her heart.

That cover is gorgeous, Melanie, and I particularly love the reflection of the "beast" in the mirror. 

Are you currently working on another novel, and if so, can you give us a snippet about it?

I just finished the first draft of a Snow White story involving Rose and Wilhelm’s (from The Healer’s Apprentice) second son, Gabe. He learns that his older brother’s betrothed is actually still alive and being persecuted by her evil stepmother. Since his older brother has a broken leg and can’t go rescue her, Gabe goes himself. He and Sophie escape from the duchess, but they have to battle her hired henchman, wild animals, and their own attraction for each other as they ride toward the Cottage of the Seven, the mysterious house where they’ve been told they will find safety.

Squee!!!  I'm loving these fairytale-based stories!  I cannot wait until this one comes out.  :o)

What was the last Christian Fiction book that you read that you couldn’t put down?

Save the Date by Jenny B. Jones. Wow, that was a great page-turner, and a great escape. And I rarely read contemporaries!

Where can readers find you on the web?

www.MelanieDickerson.com 

Please come by and see the terrific trailers Zondervan made for The Merchant’s Daughter, as well as for The Healer’s Apprentice. You also can write to me through my website. I love to hear from readers!

What is your most favorite thing about the South?

My favorite thing about the South is that people tend to be friendlier, more polite, and more laid back. Men are more likely to open the door for you or offer to help you. Personally, I appreciate that!

Iced Tea—sweet or un-sweet?

I usually ask for half and half at a restaurant, since most restaurants make it too sweet for me.

BBQ Pork or BBQ Beef?

It’s hard to go wrong with barbecue! I like both!

Dolly Parton or Elvis Presley?

Elvis!

Historical House—Plantation or Log Cabin?

Plantation

You, you all, or y’all?

Y’all. It’s a hard habit to break.

It certainly is.  :o)

____________________________________________

So, as if the surprise of Melanie's book weren't enough, we've got one more up our sleeves today!  Melanie has agreed to give one copy of her newest book, The Merchant's Daughter, to one special reader.  Won't that be a nice treat just in time for Christmas, too?  :o)

Please fill out the following form to be entered in the contest, and use the comments section on the blog post below for any other thoughts. All entries must be received by 11:59pm Saturday, November 26, and the winner will be chosen on Sunday, 11/27.  Usually the winner is announced on the following week's SSM&G, but there's a little something special in store next week with something called a Birthday Bash, so stay tuned this week for more info about that.  :o)

Contest is open to US residents only, and void where prohibited.  Odds of winning are dependent upon the number of entrants.

Southern-Style Meet & Greet with Margaret Daley

As always, thanks for joining me for another edition of Southern-Style Meet & Greet!  This week's author is new to me, but maybe not to most of you.  Stay tuned to get to know Margaret Daley a little better.

But first, the winner of last week's giveaway for Dry as Rain by Gina Holmes.  Thanks to Random.org, the winner is...

Beckie B. (msudawgtoo@...)

Congrats, Beckie!  I've passed along your info to Gina so your book can be on it's way.  :o)

And now, for this week's featured author...

Margaret Daley is an award winning, multi-published author in the romance genre. One of her romantic suspense books, Hearts on the Line, won the American Christian Fiction Writers’ Book of the Year Contest. Recently she has won the Golden Quill Contest, FHL’s Inspirational Readers’ Choice Contest, Winter Rose Contest, Holt Medallion and the Barclay Gold Contest. She wrote for various secular publishers before the Lord led her to the Christian romance market. She currently writes inspirational romance and romantic suspense books for the Steeple Hill Love Inspired lines, romantic suspense for Abingdon Press and historical romance for Summerside Press. She has sold seventy-five books to date.

Margaret is currently the President for American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), an organization of over 2200 members. She was one of the founding members of the first ACFW local chapter, WIN in Oklahoma. She has taught numerous classes for online groups, ACFW and RWA chapters. She enjoys mentoring other authors.

Welcome, Margaret!!
_____________________________________________

When did you first know you wanted to be a writer?

I’ve always loved to read. After reading tons of romances, I decided I could do that. I wrote my first book (which I wouldn’t let anyone see). After that first book, I was hooked. I was a writer. That was over thirty years ago.

What genre do you most like to write?

Romantic suspense is my favorite.

What do you hope readers “take away” with them after they read one of your books?

Hope through the Lord.

What is your latest book release?

From This Day Forward released in September through Summerside Press.

Rachel Gordon is stranded in South Carolina, pregnant, a recent widow when her husband fell overboard on the voyage to America. Nathan Stuart, a physician who came home from serving in the American army during the War of 1812, disenchanted with his life and the Lord, rescues Rachel and saves her life. Feeling responsible for her, Nathan tries to discourage her from living at a rundown farm her husband bought to start a new future in America. He wants her to return to England.

Rachel refuses to go back to England where her father disowned her for marrying against his wishes. The farm is all she has, and she is determined to make it on her own. But Nathan has other ideas and becomes her farmhand to discourage her from staying in America. Instead he ends up protecting her and being challenged by her. Can two wounded people heal each other?

Are you currently working on another novel, and if so, can you give us a snippet about it?

I’m working on A Mom’s Fresh Start about a single mother who gets a second chance at love. It is a September 2012 Love Inspired book.

What was the last Christian Fiction book that you read that you couldn’t put down?

I’m reading at the moment Long Trail Home by Vickie McDonough. It will be out by Moody in November 2011. It’s a wonderful story with characters you care about.

That one's currently in my TBR stack...interesting new series of books!

Where can readers find you on the web?

http://www.margaretdaley.com

What is your most favorite thing about the South?

Pecan pie--I love it. My mother made the best pecan pie. I would put vanilla ice cream on top of it and nothing beats it.

I admit to having a slight addiction to it myself.  :o)

If you could visit anywhere down South, where would it be and why?

Charleston, South Carolina--It is one of the few places I haven’t been in the South.

Iced Tea—sweet or un-sweet?

Sweet tea--after all I’m from the South

BBQ Pork or BBQ Beef?

BBQ beef

Dolly Parton or Elvis Presley?

Elvis Presley--he was from the state I lived in.

Historical House—Plantation or Log Cabin?

Plantation--I’ve seen some beautiful ones and they get my creative juices flowing.

Country gal or city gal?

City gal

You, you all, or y’all?

Y’all

Thanks for joining us this week, Margaret!  I hope you had a wonderful time.  :o)
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No giveaway this week, folks...gives y'all a bit of a break, I suppose.  But be sure to come back by next week for our Meet & Greet with Melanie Dickerson.  She's got some juicy stuff about her next release that you aren't gonna want to miss!

Southern-Style Meet & Greet with Gina Holmes Plus Giveaway

Well, while things may be on the slow side for me when it comes to blogging lately, I'm still thrilled to bring y'all some great authors every Monday to meet and greet with.  :o)  Thanks for stopping by for another fun interview this week with up-and-coming author Gina Holmes.

Last week's giveaway winner of There You'll Find Me by Jenny B. Jones is...

Nicole (nziegler122@...)
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When did you first know you wanted to be a writer?

I always knew I could write fairly well. I was perplexed in highschool when my classmates would groan finding out there was an essay on a test. I thought that was super easy. It shocked me that it didn’t come natural for most. In college, I wrote an essay on elevator music (aka musak) and I happened to get to watch the face of my professor reading my essay. He didn’t know I was watching and the smile on his face and surprise told me I had a gift. It wasn’t until I was a stay at home mom trying to earning extra cash that it dawned on me I could make a living. I started writing everything from greeting cards to articles and earned a whole lot of form rejection letters.

What genre do you most like to write?

I started out writing suspense because I grew up reading Stephen King. I wrote several books in this genre that came close to publishing but it wasn’t until my personal reading taste changed and therefore my writing taste that I earned my first book contract. I write relational dramas now and it’s what I seem to do best.

What do you hope readers “take away” with them after they read one of your books?

My prayer is always that my words will point to God’s truths. That’s always the prayer. God, truth and grace.

What is your latest book release?

My sophomore novel, Dry as Rain, is now out. I’m a terrible pitchman, always have been, so I’ll just give you the back-of-the-book copy:

From the bestselling author of Crossing Oceans comes a powerfully moving story that tests the limits of love’s forgiveness. Like many marriages, Eric and Kyra Yoshida’s has fallen apart slowly, one lost dream and misunderstanding at a time, until the ultimate betrayal finally pushes them beyond reconciliation. Just when it looks like forgive and forget is no longer an option, a car accident gives Eric the second chance of a lifetime. A concussion causes his wife to forget details of her life, including the chasm between them. No one knows when—or if—Kyra’s memory will return, but Eric seizes the opportunity to win back the woman he’s never stopped loving.

Are you currently working on another novel, and if so, can you give us a snippet about it?

Yes, I’m knee deep in a novel about an abused wife who finds strength in friendship and mother love. I’m madly in love with this story at this point. That could change tomorrow of course.

What was the last Christian Fiction book that you read that you couldn’t put down?

I just finished Dale Cramer’s “Levi’s Will”. A fabulous book that I was surprised to learn was based on his father’s life. My first Amish fiction. It was so beautiful!

Where can readers find you on the web?

www.ginaholmes.com
www.inspireafire.com
www.novelrocket.com

What is your most favorite thing about the South?

I’m a Jersey girl but have lived in Southern Virginia for fourteen years now and I am a southern girl at heart. It just appeals to me on so many levels. I love the slower pace, the hospitality, the kindness, and even the ability to not say everything that comes to mind like we do in the North. My husband is about as southern as you can get and I adore his accent and his very southern family. I can’t imagine ever moving away from the south, in fact, we’d eventually like to move further south.

Iced Tea—sweet or un-sweet?

Just like I’m half northern, half southern, so is my taste in tea. Half and half baby!

BBQ Pork or BBQ Beef?

North Carolina vinegar based bbq!

Dolly Parton or Elvis Presley?

Um… haha Elvis. Sorry, Dolly.

Historical House—Plantation or Log Cabin?

My husband would be plantation, but I’m a log cabin girl for sure!

Country gal or city gal?

I’m a city girl who loves the country. I’ve never lived in the country but the older I get, the more it appeals to me. We want to retire to the country, on a body
of water.

You, you all, or y’all?

I grew up saying “Yooz” in typical Jersey style, but I’ve succumbed to y’all a long long time ago. My family thinks it’s hysterical whenever I say y’all, yonder, kin and other southern sayings. They make fun of me mercilessly. I find less and less humor in this. They should hear themselves the way I do, they wouldn’t be laughing at me! :)
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Thanks to Gina's generosity, there's a copy of her newest book, Dry as Rain, up for grabs this week! Please fill out the following form to be entered in the contest, and use the comments section on the blog post below for any other thoughts. All entries must be received by Sunday, November 13, and a winner will be chosen on next week's Meet & Greet. US residents only.

Southern-Style Meet & Greet with Jenny B. Jones Plus Giveaway

Thank you so much for joining me on my front porch for this week's Southern-Style Meet & Greet! So sorry for the lateness of this week's post.  When you have a first day on the job...well, the best laid plans don't always go as planned.  So, thanks for sticking with me this week for an evening post of SSM&G.  :o)

Before we get to this week's author, let me announce the winner of last week's giveaway for a copy of Wonderland Creek by Lynn Austin.  Thanks to Random.org, the winner is:

Cindy (cynthialambrecht@...)

Cindy, your book will be on it's way to you shortly.  I hope you'll enjoy it!

And now for this week's author...Jenny B. Jones!
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When did you first know you wanted to be a writer?

Like many say, I've always known. I can remember being in first grade and writing one act shows. Nothing like making yourself the star.

What genre do you most like to write?

YA and romantic comedy for women.

Do your own personal experiences, or those of family and friends, ever find their way into one your stories?

Travel finds its way into my books. A couple of years ago I went to Ireland and fell in love with the country and the people. So I set There You'll Find Me there.

I've always wanted to visit Ireland...or England...or anywhere in Europe, actually. 

What do you hope readers “take away” with them after they read one of your books?

I hope they have fun, have some laughs, and come away with hope and something to think about.

What is your latest book release?

There You'll Find Me released this month.  Here's the back-cover blurb:

Grief brought Finley to Ireland. LOVE WILL LEAD HER HOME.

Finley Sinclair is not your typical eighteen-year-old. She's witty, tough, and driven. With an upcoming interview at the Manhattan music conservatory, Finley needs to compose her audition piece. But her creativity disappeared with the death of her older brother, Will.

She decides to study abroad in Ireland so she can follow Will's travel journal. It's the place he felt closest to God, and she's hopeful being there will help her make peace over losing him. So she agrees to an exchange program and boards the plane.

Beckett Rush, teen heartthrob and Hollywood bad boy, is flying to Ireland to finish filming his latest vampire movie. On the flight, he meets Finley. She's the one girl who seems immune to his charm. Undeterred, Beckett convinces her to be his assistant in exchange for his help as a tour guide.

Once in Ireland, Finley starts to break down. The loss of her brother and the pressure of school, her audition, and whatever it is that is happening between her and Beckett, leads her to a new and dangerous vice. When is God going to show up for her in this emerald paradise?

Are you currently working on another novel, and if so, can you give us a snippet about it?

I've actually taken 2011 off from writing to recharge the batteries. It's been great. I do have a book brewing in my head and am thinking of starting in a few weeks. We'll see if the extended break was worth it...

What was the last Christian Fiction book that you read that you couldn’t put down?

I like anything by Christa Allan, Susan Meissner, Marybeth Whalen, Cara Putman, Rachel Hauck, Nicole O'Dell, Kim Cash Tate, Kit Wilkinson, Mary DeMuth. I could do this all day....someone stop me...

I know what you mean.  :o)

Where can readers find you on the web?

www.jennybjones.com

What is your most favorite thing about the South?

All of it. I love Southern culture. I love the beauty of my part of the state, the history around us, the culture of a place like Charleston, the value on food and family and iced tea.

Iced Tea—sweet or un-sweet?

Unsweet. Daily. It's my weakness for sure.

Sweet tea is my weakness. It's a miracle I still have all my teeth.

BBQ Pork or BBQ Beef?

I'm not much of a pork girl, but when it comes to BBQ, it's gotta be pig all the way.

Dolly Parton or Elvis Presley?

Dolly. She's so smart and funny and talented and humble. There is so much more to that woman than big chest and big hair. And I love that she met her husband at a place called the Wishy Washy.

I never knew that! See what you learn if you're not careful. :o)

Historical House—Plantation or Log Cabin?

Plantation

Country gal or city gal?

Country for sure.

You, you all, or y’all?

Please. Y'all.
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Yep, you guessed it...there's a copy of Jenny's newest book, There You'll Find Me, up for grabs this week! Please fill out the following form to be entered in the contest, and use the comments section on the blog post below for any other thoughts.  All entries must be received by Sunday, November 6, and a winner will be chosen on next week's Meet & Greet. US residents only.

Southern-Style Meet & Greet with Lynn Austin Plus Giveaway

Thank you so much for coming over for this week's Southern-Style Meet & Greet! I am so excited about today's guest as she's been a favorite of mine for many years. :o)

But first, let me announce the winner of last week's giveaway for Along Wooded Paths by Tricia Goyer. Thanks to Random.org, the winner is...

Candace (cbetts@...)

Candace, I'll see to it that your book is on it's way to you very soon. Congrats!

Now, for this week's guest!

Lynn has written across many genres in Christian fiction, but lately, her books have been historical in nature. She is the popular author of the Biblical fiction series, Chronicles of the King, and I won't lie...it's always been a favorite of mine. :o)  Hope you guys enjoy our visit!

Welcome, Lynn!! :o)
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How did your journey begin as a writer?

I love to read but it seemed like so many well-written books gave readers very little hope. Too many themes seemed to be “Life is hard and then you die.” I agree that life is hard—but God is good! So I sat down one day 27 years ago (I was a stay-at-home mom with a new baby) and decided to write the kind of book I enjoy reading—one that makes me laugh, makes me cry, and helps me learn something about myself and my faith. I knew nothing about getting published (that would come later) but I found that I enjoyed writing so much that I knew I wanted to keep doing it.

If you were not a published author, what would your dream job be and why?

Writing IS my dream job! When I first started writing, I used to think, “Oh, if only I could write books full-time and find a group of readers who love my books.” My dream has come true! But if I had to choose another job….I’d probably be an interior designer. I love to tour beautiful homes and I’m always painting or changing something in my own home. I love reading decorating magazines and watching the decorating channels on TV whenever I’m in a place that has cable TV.

Those design shows suck me in every time.  Before I know it, I've lost 2 hours of my day!

You’ve written across several genres over the years. Is there a particular genre that is your favorite?

I loved writing my biblical fiction series, “Chronicles of the King.” Those books are still my favorites. Someday, hope to write more biblical fiction set in Israel.

I hope you do, too, and I'm sure I'm not alone.  :o)

You had the privilege of having one of your books, Hidden Places, turned into a movie. What was that experience like for you?

Well, it came about with no effort on my part. Hallmark contacted my publisher, Bethany House, and made all of the arrangements. But I did have the opportunity to fly to California and watch them film part of the movie. What an amazing experience! I was blown away to see my fictitious setting and fictional characters “come to life” in so much detail. As I watched hundreds of people racing around with cameras and microphones and all sorts of equipment I was overwhelmed. I never realized how much work went into filming one tiny scene. It really was a thrill of a lifetime.

What is your latest book release?

My newest book is called Wonderland Creek and will be in bookstores sometime this month. Here is a synopsis:

Alice Grace Ripley lives in a dream world, her nose stuck in a book. But the happily-ever-after life she’s planned on suddenly falls apart when her boyfriend breaks up with her, accusing her of living in a world of fiction instead of the real world. To top it off, Alice loses her beloved library job because of cutbacks due to the Great Depression.

Longing to run from small-town gossip, Alice flees to the mountains of eastern Kentucky to deliver five boxes of donated books to the tiny coal-mining town of Acorn, a place with no running water, no electricity, and where the librarians ride ornery horses up steep mountain passes to deliver books. When Alice is forced to stay in Acorn far longer than she planned, she discovers that real-life adventure, mystery—and especially romance—may be far better than her humble dreams could have imagined.

Where can readers find you on the web?

My website is www.lynnaustin.org

If you could visit anywhere down South, where would it be and why?

I would love to return to Charleston, South Carolina. What a beautiful city! The people I met were so warm and gracious—and helpful, too, as I gathered research for my novels, Fire by Night, and A Light to My Path. If I went back, I would like to tour more of the beautiful old homes, inside and out. What a feast for the eyes.

Charleston is one of the few places I've not visited down here.  Some day I'd like to see it for myself because everyone has such great things to say about it!

Iced Tea—sweet or un-sweet?

Sweet, of course! There’s nothing like it.

Historical house—large plantation or log cabin?

I loved touring the plantations around Charleston and Beaufort.

Country gal or city gal?

County gal—I love the woods and the peace and quiet of the country. But I would have to live in a country mansion on a gorgeous estate.
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If you'd like to be entered to win a copy of Lynn's latest book, Wonderland Creek, simply fill out all of the required fields in the giveaway form in their entirety. Please leave any thoughts regarding the interview in the comment section (as we seem to always strike up a conversation down there). :o)

Giveaway is open to US residents only, and void where prohibited. All entries must be received before Sunday, October 30, 11:59PM CST to qualify, and the winner will be announced on next week's SSM&G. Odds of winning are contingent upon number of entries.

Southern-Style Meet & Greet with Tricia Goyer Plus Giveaway

As always, thank you for joining me for another week of Southern-Style Meet & Greet!  You all know the drill...stay tuned to meet our featured guest plus a giveaway at the end!  :o)

First off, last week's giveaway winner.  Thanks to Random.org, the winner of a copy of Desired by Ginger Garrett is...

Megan (inspiredbyfiction@...)

Congrats, Megan!  Desired will be on it's way to you shortly...you're gonna love it.  :o)

And now, for this week's featured author--Tricia Goyer!

Tricia is the author of thirty books including Songbird Under a German Moon, The Swiss Courier, and the mommy memoir, Blue Like Play Dough. She won Historical Novel of the Year in 2005 and 2006 from ACFW, and was honored with the Writer of the Year award from Mt. Hermon Writer's Conference in 2003. Tricia's book Life Interrupted was a finalist for the Gold Medallion in 2005. In addition to her novels, Tricia writes non-fiction books and magazine articles for publications like MomSense and Thriving Family. Tricia is a regular speaker at conventions and conferences, and has been a workshop presenter at the MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) International Conventions. She and her family make their home in Little Rock, Arkansas where they are part of the ministry of FamilyLife.

Welcome, Tricia!
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When did you first know you wanted to be a writer?

It began when I met Cindy Martinusen Coloma in church, 20 years ago. Cindy was also a young mom. We got to know each other, and Cindy told me about her dream to write. Something struck a chord in me. I had grown up loving to read, but I never considered writing. We encouraged each other. We attended our first writer's conference in 1994 at Mt. Hermon in Northern California. I was 22-years-old and pregnant with my third child at that first conference. Being at that conference I knew that's what I wanted to do!

Through the years, Cindy and I have encouraged each other, and God has led us down amazing paths. Cindy also has many novels published now: www.cindycoloma.com

What genre do you most like to write?

I love writing historical fiction, but I'll qualify that...because I also love writing Amish fiction. Maybe because it feels “historical” to me. The Amish have been able to keep the traditions of their ancestors—traditions and a lifestyle that many of us have lost in our technology-filled busy lives.

You're not the only one...Amish fiction feels historical to me, too.  :o)

Do your own personal experiences, or those of family and friends, ever find their way into one your stories? If it’s not too personal, do you have a funny one you can share with us?

Yes! Every book has personal stories woven into it. One of my novels, Beside Still Waters is inspired by the Eash family who moved from Indiana to Montana to be part of an Amish community there. When I signed the contract to write the story I had NO IDEA our family would soon be moving from Kalispell, Montana to Little Rock, Arkansas. I never thought I'd find myself living in the South, but I had to admit I REALLY enjoy it!

In another novel Along Wooded Paths, Marianna builds friendships with people very different than herself. As I wrote that novel, I was making friends with “Southerners”--some of whom were very different than me, and it the process I met some amazing people. I'm learning that most things that enter my life end up in one of my novels.

One funny story involves my husband. He loves making up sayings, and his favorite is, “A wet tick in a watermelon patch.” He uses it ALL the time! For example, “I'm happier than a wet tick in a watermelon patch,” or “I'm fuller than a wet tick in a watermelon patch,” even “I'm more tired than a wet tick in a watermelon patch.” It doesn't really make sense, and I think that's the point. The fun thing is that I included the phrase in one of my novels! (Send me a note through my website if you find it! LOL.)

His phrase reminds me of another one I've heard quite often (down South, mostly), "I'm as full as a tick on a hound dog's ear!"

What do you hope readers “take away” with them after they read one of your books?

I hope they put down my book inspired. I hope they see God in new ways. I hope they understand better how God uses ordinary people in extraordinary ways!

What is your latest book release?

My newest novel is the second book in my Big Sky Series, Along Wooded Paths. Book #3 is Beyond Hope's Valley and it'll be out April 2012!

All she wanted was a simple Amish life . . . But now Marianna Sommer finds herself depending on Englisch neighbors. Although proud of living apart from the world, she and her newly relocated Amish family have discovered that life in the remote mountains of Montana requires working together.

As Marianna begins helping those different from herself—and receiving their help—her heart contemplates two directions. She’s torn between the Amish man from Indiana whom she has long planned on marrying and the friendly Englischer who models a closer walk with God than she’s ever seen before.

Who should have young Marianna’s heart? What is God asking her to sacrifice? Her traditions? Her community? The answer is found along the wooded paths.

Are you currently working on another novel, and if so, can you give us a snippet about it?

Yes, I'm currently working on Love Finds You in Glacier Bay, Alaska. I'm co-writing it with my friend Ocieanna Fleiss and we just traveled up there last month for research! This is the snippet so far, but since it's still a work-in-progress, things might change.

Ginny Marshall is on the verge of having her dreams realized. She's one signature away from signing a major recording contract and she's peaked the interest of Danny Kingston, her agent and one of the most influential men in pop music. Yet something deep inside tells her not to sign. Knowing she needs someone to talk to—someone who'd be interested in her best interest and not just in her notoriety, she travels to Glacier Bay, Alaska to find her ex-fiance Brett Miller.
As soon as Ginny is shuttled into Glacier Bay she has a good feeling about coming. The tidewater glaciers, snow-capped mountain ranges, ocean coastlines, deep fjords, and freshwater rivers and lakes reconnect her with God in a way she hadn't experienced in a while. She finds her way to the address Brett had given her, but discovers he isn't home. A neighbor gives Ginny directions to Brett's grandmother's cabin, surely Granny M. will know where he is.

Granny M. welcomes Ginny with open arms. “So, you're the Ginny I've heard so much about.” Granny M. starts telling Ginny about some letters, when Ginny interrupts and asks where Brett is. Unfortunately he's on a week long kayaking trip with is father and brother. Ginny just missed him.

Staying with Granny M., Ginny reads the letters sent from Glacier Bay, Alaska Territory, 1929. The first letter is from a Mr. Claiborn Maibe asking his friend Rev. Hal Wakeland to choose a bride for him—someone of pleasing companionship and a fine moral conduct who will be a good mother to Clairborne's two children. Ginny is intrigued. Would a man honestly send for a wife and marry the woman who arrived ... without question?

Through the letters—and the new friends she meets at Glacier Bay—Ginny remembers what a relationship with God is all about. She also discovers what—and who—her heart desires most.

What was the last Christian Fiction book that you read that you couldn’t put down?

Good question! I've read a lot of good ones, but I couldn't SLEEP until I finished The Shape of Mercy by Susan Meissner.

Everybody and their momma is telling me what a great book this is!  Must see what all the fuss is about...and soon!

Where can readers find you on the web?

My website: www.triciagoyer.com
My radio show: www.toginet.com/shows/livinginspired
My Facebook page: www.facebook.com/authortriciagoyer
My Twitter page: www.twitter.com/triciagoyer

What is your most favorite thing about the South?

I've lived in Little Rock, Arkansas for 1 1/2 years and I love it. I love the personalities. People are so fun and everyone has such a great sense of humor, plus they strike up conversations if you make eye contact. I often find myself chatting with someone at Walmart for 10 minutes, and really enjoying myself. My husband and I met one couple at a yard sale and when we left John told me, “I feel like we've known them for years, not just fifteen minutes.”

Don't you just love that?  *smile*

Iced Tea—sweet or un-sweet?

Sweet please!

BBQ Pork or BBQ Beef?

Pork.

Dolly Parton or Elvis Presley?

Elvis, swoon.

Historical House—Plantation or Log Cabin?

Plantation.

Country gal or city gal?

I like to live close to the city but look out my window at the country.

You, you all, or y’all?

It was you all, but if I'm out and about in Little Rock it's slipping into y'all.

That's okay.  You're Southern now, and people might start to look at you funny if you didn't say "y'all!"
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Did y'all have a great time with Tricia today?  I sure did.  ;o)  And thanks to her, we've got a lovely giveaway for this week.

If you'd like to be entered to win a copy of Tricia's latest book, Along Wooded Paths, simply fill out the giveaway form in it's entirety.  Please leave any thoughts regarding the interview in the comment section (as we seem to always strike up a conversation down there).  :o)  If you have any comments for Tricia, be sure to leave them down there as well, and hopefully, she'll be able to stop by to chat for a moment.

Giveaway is open to US residents only, and void where prohibited.  All entries must be received before Sunday, October 23, 11:59PM CST to qualify.  Odds of winning are contingent upon number of entries.