The Nativity

Mary, mother of Jesus. My heart can barely grasp what an extraordinary woman she must have been to be chosen the mother of the world’s Savior. I imagine her perfect, without sin. Though this is unlikely, God blessed her above all women. Yet His path for Mary wasn’t easy. To avoid disgrace as an unwed mother, God instructed her fiancée to marry her and to travel together from Nazareth to safety in Bethlehem.

The young couple trekked on unpaved trails for four days along flatlands and over hills, possibly in freezing temperatures. When they reached Bethlehem, no doubt weary, they had to settle for a cave—used to house animals—in which to rest where Mary gave birth.

The least desired place for a birthing mother became the most honored and beloved story of all time. The young couple listened to God, trusted, obeyed, and persevered. Hard as it was—which many of us can’t comprehend just how difficult—God provided for them along the way and when they reached their destination.

I wonder if the world silenced to hear the first cry of the King. If an unidentified light glowed in the dim cave, the moment Jesus entered the world. If the waters rested and the winds ceased. Luke 2:13-14 tells us after shepherds in Bethlehem were told of Jesus’ birth, the angels sang. We will never know the full magnificence of all that took place during the nativity.

What an honor it is to have included the nativity in my novel Dress Shop Miracles. It’s one of my favorite scenes as my characters traveled from a hard path to hope, love, and miracles. I hope you love the story of Molly and Ted as much as I did writing it, and guess what?

I’m giving away one e-book copy of Dress Shop Miracles via Amazon Kindle.

To qualify for the drawing simply: 1) subscribe to my website at diannmarieandre.com; 2) then comment below this article (at my website) that you subscribed via Christmas Blog Tour. The winner will be announced December 24, 2022.

You can read the blurb here:

https://www.amazon.com/Dress-Miracles-Dianne-Marie-Andre-ebook/dp/B0BH1CVXYK/ref=sr_1_1?

I hope you’ll take a moment to enjoy a video with my 52-year-old nativity set honoring the birth of Christ. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ao9h2lbQTgw

Merry Christmas!

Bio:

In addition to writing Christian fiction, Dianne is currently working on a memoir. She is a landscape photographer. Most of her pictures are taken on twenty acres where she lives in California’s Central Valley with her husband, Joe, her adorable rescue dog, Ralphie, occasional steers, hens, sheep, and a bazillion trees. You can connect with her at https://diannemarieandre.com/5039-2/

The post Christmas Blog Tour – Welcome Dianne Marie Andre appeared first on Laurie Wood Author.

Northern Hearts (Heroes of the Tundra Book 2) is my Christmas novella set in the real-life town of Churchill, Manitoba, Canada. It’s called the Polar Bear Capitol of the World. I set my entire series there, and my husband and I flew up in 2019 so that I could do proper research on the town and its polar bear research facilities.

I set this story during the Christmas in between Northern Deception (Book 1) and Northern Protector (Book 3). The inspiration for the story came to me out of the blue—I love it when my brain and creativity strikes like that—because I was thinking about family situations and secrets.

I had the vision of a rich young woman with every advantage she could have in her life, but still yearning for more. And her family held a long, dark secret in the past. She’s about to find out about a family member she had never known existed before, and how that person had been following her life from afar.

The hero is the opposite. He’s grown up without a proper family in the foster care system and the unknown family member of the heroine has been a stand-in mother figure for him. When the hero and heroine meet and are forced to work together for thirty days to meet the legal requirements of the family member’s will, they have to examine what their relationships mean to them and learn to work together.

Being a romance, they will fall in love, but I include some real-life festivities that take place in Churchill, and some traditions that I wish I’d done myself over the years. I believe that family traditions keep memories alive and serve the purpose of keeping families intact, especially when children are young and growing up. Once they’re grown up, some traditions need to change to facilitate the changes in the family make-up, for example, adult children marrying and the “family” enlarging.

Like the Sabbath being made for man, not man for the Sabbath, as Jesus taught us, I think that family traditions like every person being present at Christmas dinner when that may not be feasible, need to be looked at in the light of love and common sense. Christmas dinners may need to be done rotationally. Traditions may need to grow and change as the years go by.

That doesn’t mean that our Christmas excitement and celebrations of our one true King shouldn’t take place or be enjoyed. They just may look different from year to year, and that’s all right. The true meaning of Christmas is that Jesus is the Light of the World and our Saviour. I wish you all a blessed Christmas!

Here is a quick excerpt from Chapter 1 of NORTHERN HEARTS:

Wild and dangerous and the town has nothing of significance…

With that ringing in her ears, she grabbed her soft-sided hot pink suitcase and hauled it upright beside her. The clock read 9:45 a.m., so she was right on time. Her ride should be here any minute. Gazing around the tiny, one-room airport, she noticed a twelve-foot-high polar bear skin hung spread out in a wooden display case. The sheer height and width of it gave her pause.

“It’s nothing but snow, ice, and polar bears,” her dad had said. She rolled her luggage over to the huge case and checked out the five-inch claws on the paws of the polar bear skin. Its teeth were three inches, at least, bared permanently in a snarl. The entire fur from side to side had to be four feet wide.

She drew in a breath to calm her nerves and turned to read the huge blue and white sign on the wall.

“Welcome to Churchill, Manitoba–Polar Bear Country,” it read.

“NEVER–

Go beyond a polar bear alert warning sign

Approach or feed a bear for any reason

Walk at night after 10 p.m.

“Always be alert and aware of your surroundings,” said a deep voice from behind her left shoulder.

Adrenaline rippled through her veins. Kali gasped and jumped. “Excuse me?”

“Sorry.” The man who’d spoken loomed over her. His fur-lined green parka hood, which he shoved back out of the way, framed his brown hair and beard scruff. His brown, almost black, eyes didn’t look the least bit sorry. His thick, longish hair poked up in an unruly fashion and curled around his ears. He grinned, showing white, even teeth she couldn’t help but stare at for a second. Handsome. Unbelievably handsome.

“Sorry, that’s the next line on the sign—you are reading the sign, aren’t you?”

“Yes, I mean, I was… I just…” Kali stopped. Get a hold of yourself! You’re babbling.

“The most important thing to remember is that bears can be in town at any time of day or night,” he quoted from the sign. “I’m assuming you’re Miss Kali McIntyre?”

She drew herself up to her entire 5’ 1” height. “You can drop the Miss. And yes, I’m Kali McIntyre.” If this guy was her ride, she’d just hit the lottery.

He drew off his enormous fur-trimmed gauntlet and thrust his right-hand forwards to shake her hand. “Excellent. I’m Jake Miller, from The Great Northern Lodge.”

©Laurie Wood 2019

If you visit my website at https://www.lauriewoodauthor.com and sign up for my newsletter, you’ll receive a gift. Thank you for being with me today.

You can buy Northern Hearts here: https://amzn.to/33CFJeE

Northern Redemption (Heroes of the Tundra Book 4) will come out in 2023.

The post Christmas Blog Tour – Hello from Churchill Manitoba Canada appeared first on Laurie Wood Author.

Welcome to the Blog, Ann! Tell us a bit about yourself.

I’m a wife, mom of four, writer, and coffee connoisseur. We live in the Capital region of Canada (where both official languages are spoken on a daily basis!) which is a significant starting point for traveling east or west with our trailer. We love to camp, so we spend most of our summers traveling to unknown places. Though, the Gaspésie region of eastern Quebec is our favourite spot to camp (and the inspiration for one of my novels).

What was the catalyst for your interest in writing?

When I was in elementary school, I loved reading. I loved it so much that I volunteered to help in the library every day after school. When I was in Grade Five, my librarian encouraged me to enter a writing contest. I won and was invited to a conference held at the University of Guelph, where I met published authors. Then, in college, my English professor asked if I’d ever thought about writing books. It wasn’t until twenty years after that chat that I wrote my first novel.

Who was your favorite character to create?

By far, Mrs.Sweeney was the most fun to create, followed by Tilly. Mrs. Sweeney is the culmination of several women who have been influential in my life. And the inspiration from Tilly came from my best friend. She’s the first to tell me the truth—without coating it in sweetness, but she’s the best of the best and I’m so blessed to have her for my friend.

How did you come up with the names of your hero and/or heroine?

I looked up the popular baby names from the approximate year my characters would have been born. From that list, I started thinking about how many people I knew with those names and it went from there.

What does your family think of your writing?

My husband and kids are super supportive. They especially love it when I finish writing a novel because then I make homemade ice cream to celebrate my accomplishment. My girls are anxiously waiting for me to finish writing a series of middle grade books for them and are full of ideas how the stories should work out. Those books are my fun projects in between other writing projects.

Are you part of a writing group?

I’m a part of several writing groups and I’m so thankful for each person who has helped me along the way. I’m a member of Faith Hope Love Christian Writers, American Christian Fiction Writers, and The Word Guild. I’ve learned so much from the webinars provided by FHLCW and the open discussions about everything to do with writing; ACFW’s novel track keeps me accountable to other writers and inspires me to keep plowing through my WIPs when I don’t have enough steam to keep going; and The Word Guild is providing great insight to the world of self-publishing in Canada. Then, there are friendships I’ve formed from these groups, individuals who have helped me tremendously in different facets. I’m grateful that you’re one of them, Laurie!

And I’m grateful for your friendship as well!

What’s next for you as an author?

I currently have two novels being considered for publication with a major publishing house, I’ve received a full manuscript request for my historical novel (which I’m still writing), and I’m in the early stages of dipping my toes in the world of indie publishing. And, hopefully, I’ll have a story to gift my girls this Christmas.

Give us a quick blurb about your Christmas book…

All she needs is to get home for Christmas. All he needs is a Christmas miracle.

The last person PR Director, Stephanie Clark expected to rescue her from a winter storm was the best friend, and love of her life, who abandoned her twelve years prior. Editor-in-Chief Jason Miller regrets everything about walking away from the story that would have defined his career, but ruined Stephanie’s family. In a holiday season full of surprises they must fight for truth and risk losing everything, or learn to have faith again and trust God’s perfect plan, despite their circumstances.

Share your favorite excerpt from your book:

There’s a bit of a mystery going on around town that Stephanie and Jason are working to solve.

“At first, I thought it was a prank, but like you wrote in your article this morning, a

lot of that is happening and I wonder why.”

Sally placed a hand on her hip as Stephanie opened the folded paper.

“What do you make of the note?”

Sally shrugged. “Beats me. Says, ‘I.O.U. four reindeer’ so I’m waiting to either get

paid or find my little guys back in their spot sometime soon.” Sally waved to onlookers

outside in the cold who returned the gesture.

“Thing is, I’m happy to spread Christmas cheer, but it’s a puzzle as to why someone

would have a reason to do this. After all, this is the center of New England Christmas,

good will and peace toward men. No other town does Christmas better than Winterberry

Falls. I don’t know of many who would begrudge helping another find a little bit of

Christmas.”

Sally’s eyes dimmed. Stephanie frowned. The woman’s statement made a lot of sense, but it brought up

more questions than answers.

I’ve read it and loved it! It’s a wonderful Christmas romance!

Where can readers find you online?

Join other readers in finding out the latest news from Ann and for bookish fun, by signing up for my newsletter on my website: https://brodeurwrites.org/

Check out novel inspiration, book reviews and more on my Pinterest page: https://www.pinterest.ca/brodeurwrites

Follow and Like my author page: https://www.facebook.com/annbrodeurauthor

GoodReads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/20786619.Ann_Brodeur

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/ann-brodeur

Amazon: https://www.amazon.ca/Ann-Brodeur

Library Thing: https://www.librarything.com/author/brodeurann

SNOWBOUND IN WINTERBERRY FALLS Purchase links:

Ebook Canada: https://amzn.to/3529fZe

Ebook US: https://amzn.to/3p48B5y

Paperback: https://bit.ly/36aKN7h

The post Christmas Blog Tour – Welcome Author Ann Brodeur appeared first on Laurie Wood Author.

Welcome to the blog today, Rachelle! Please tell our readers a bit about yourself:

I write contemporary romance novels filled with heart and hope. I earned my masters’ degree in Fine and Decorative Arts from the Sotheby’s Institute of Art in London. I love to include Art History elements in my novels, so I have an excuse to research.

That is fascinating! Please describe your new book briefly:

When Samantha Holt discovers Newcomb art pottery in the wall of a historic home, she knows the pieces are valuable. If she can sell the vases with her family’s auction company, she can bring in much needed funds for both the historic home and her family business. But she needs a second opinion and calls an expert from Chicago. The man arrives with his daughter and nothing goes according to plan.

I love single parent stories! What was the inspiration behind this one?

I wanted to write a story about finding treasure because it happens more than you’d think and in unexpected places. A lot of small towns in the Midwest were bustling during the nineteenth century thanks to the Mississippi River. Go look at your attics!

Were there any surprises that came up as you wrote your story?

I loved writing the historical elements of this story. I first discovered romance books through the historical subgenre. While I don’t think I’d be able to write a full historical romance, I had a lot of fun putting myself into the mindset of the time for one element of this book (no spoilers about what it is!).

Who was your favourite character to create?

My favorite character(s) to create in this book were the little girls. I have two of the funniest kids, and I loved incorporating some of their personalities as five-year-olds into Isla and Olivia.

Let’s see your gorgeous cover and back blurb for your book:

Her One in a Million (Home to Harmony #3)

While renovating the MacKinnon mansion, Samantha “Sam” Holt discovers three prized ceramics in a wall. The one in a million find could provide much needed funds for the restoration—and her family’s struggling auction business. She calls a Chicago expert for a second opinion.

Zachary Reynolds arrives with his five-year-old daughter in tow, intending to leave with the vases immediately. Partly because the pottery won’t reach its six-figure potential in a small-town sale, but mostly because the ceramics will secure his job in an impending merger with a larger firm—and he needs that guaranteed stability for his daughter.

Sam and Zach both need the pottery for very personal reasons, but only one can emerge victorious. As they research the history of the pieces and the mansion, however, the best choice isn’t clear-cut. Add in romantic feelings neither of them expected and things become even more complicated. With the odds stacked against them, can they both achieve the financial and personal success they crave?

Amazon: https://amzn.to/3U9lqep

Barnes & Noble: https://bit.ly/3U7d6f7

Kobo: https://bit.ly/3qB2yr1

Apple iBooks: https://apple.co/3BF8xl7

And here’s an excerpt from the book:

“It looks like a scary house,” Isla murmured.

He chuckled. To a child, the faded and flaked paint on the shutters indicated ghosts. When he studied the house, blood coursed through his veins with enough energy to propel him through a marathon. Old homes held treasure. Maybe enough to save my career.

“No, sweetie.” Bending, he rested a knee on the sidewalk and pointed a finger to the building. “It’s just old. But someone is fixing it up. See the light colors on the side of the house between the windows?” He wasn’t sure how else to explain new cedar shingles to a child.

“You mean the polka dots?”

He smiled. “Sure, that’s a better description. Would anything scary live in a place with pretty polka dots?”

“I guess not.” She nibbled her lip and dropped her chin. “I like polka dots.”

With a hand on her shoulder, he squeezed and stood.

She reached for his right hand with hers and interlaced their little fingers.

He raised the pinkie promise to his lips and kissed his side.

She did the same.

Their unspoken oath meant more to him than anything. Her faith in him would never be misplaced. Filling the role of both parents grew more complicated with every year and major milestone. Thinking ahead overwhelmed him. He took each situation one at a time and prayed he wasn’t screwing up. He wasn’t in a rush to deal with adolescence.

“Shall we go inside?” he asked.

She nodded.

He pushed open the front gate slowly, anxious any groan or squeal of rusty hinges might agitate his daughter again. When he studied her, however, he only saw delight.

“Look at how pretty.” She pointed with her free hand to the facade. “It looks like a princess house.”

Once inside the fence with the gate shut, the shrubs on the perimeter offered a green buffer, hiding the outside world. While the house looked imposing from the street, standing before the place, it seemed perfectly sized and welcoming. A wraparound porch hugged the house from the turret past the front door, extending around the side. He scanned over the grass to neatly mulched flower beds, planted with mums.

He studied his companion and arched a brow. “Want to see the inside?”

She nodded, grinning.

He led the way along the path and up the front steps. At his side, his daughter bounced in time to his large steps. Maybe today would be fine. After a rough start, he prepared himself for the rule of three and waited for the next disaster. Since arriving in town, however, his luck changed. Maybe someone is watching over me. On the porch, he dropped his grip of Isla’s hand and pressed the doorbell.

Leaning forward, he strained to hear the echoing ring. “I don’t think that worked.”

“Knock.”

Raising a fist, he rapped on the door and stepped back, reaching for Isla.

The heavy door opened, swinging inward.

A woman filled the empty frame.

He blinked several times, clearing his vision. Dressed in a dark pink sweater and black slacks, the blonde’s golden hair sparkled by comparison. With a smile stretching her cheeks to her blue eyes, she extended a hand.

Realization slammed into him. The woman from the bakery. He studied her slim fingers in midair. She didn’t align with the voice on the call yesterday. He shook his head, dislodging the ambiguous wrinkling face from his mind. He’d been annoyed and caught off-guard at her insistence for the in-person meeting. He was here and needed a second chance at a better first impression.

“It’s you,” Isla said. “Is Olivia here?” On tiptoe, she danced side to side.

“Good morning, again,” the woman from the bakery replied. “No, I dropped her off. She’s home with her mom.”

“That’s not you?” Isla asked.

The words sounded equal parts bitter and tired, a croak strangled from a tight throat. He squeezed Isla’s hand once. If anyone should appreciate how tender the subject of mothers could be, she did.

Isla looked at the ground, rolling her shoulders. “Sorry. That was rude.”

The woman held up a hand. “No need to apologize. Olivia is very well-mannered and a treat to spend time with. I was helping her mom.” She extended her hand again, hovering her fingers in midair. “I’m Sam Holt. I’m guessing you’re Mr. Reynolds?”

“Yes.” He grabbed her hand and shook in an exaggerated up and down motion. His clammy grip didn’t improve on yesterday’s first impression.

©Rachelle Paige Campbell 2022

What does your family think of your writing?

My family are my biggest supporters, and I’m so grateful. My parents, my husband, and my kids hold the only opinions that matter to me. They have all encouraged me from the start and celebrate every step of the way.

What’s next for you as an author?

I have the fourth—and final—book in the Home to Harmony series in the works. It is a Christmas book that includes baking, a nativity play, and all the festive fun of the season. In a series about forgiveness, the last book has the toughest hurdles for the characters.

Where can readers find you online?

If you want writing updates, sales alerts, and information about new releases first, sign up for my newsletter: https://eepurl.com/dEjzZz

I’m also very active on Instagram https://bit.ly/3xBTyXp

and my blog https://bit.ly/3DunsA1

Thanks so much for sharing your latest release with us today, Rachelle! And all the best for writing Book 4 in the series.

The post Author Interview with Rachelle Paige Campbell appeared first on Laurie Wood Author.

Today I’m so happy to welcome Anaiah author Michelle Lowe to the blog! Welcome, Michelle! Please tell us a bit about yourself.

I have lived in the same small area of North Carolina all of my life. I am blessed to have my husband of over twenty-two years, Brian, and our son, Jake, who is eighteen. We also have a very spoiled bluetick-mix, Daisy. I am a registered nurse as well as an author. I work part-time for a small company out of Raleigh completing nursing assessments during the week and I enjoy writing in my free time.

I’m excited that your first book is out now. Please tell us a bit about it:

THE AUTUMN KEEPSAKE is an inspirational novella about a girl and her best friend; a sweet old hound dog named Laura. Laura has been with Tessa Stanley through thick and thin– including an unimaginable childhood tragedy. In the story, Tessa and Laura bond with their eccentric eighty-four-year-old neighbor, Mrs. Charleston. And when Tessa accidentally calls the police on the woman’s nephew, who also happens to be the local fire chief, she is unexpectedly reconnected to the past and the secret namesake behind her dog’s special name.

That’s an intriguing premise! Who was your favourite character to write in the story?

My favorite character is Mrs. Charleston, Tessa’s neighbor. She is such a colorful woman at eighty-four years of age. Petite, with fiery red hair, she laughs a lot and often smells of her characteristic rose perfume. My favorite aspect is how she drives her beige antique automobile, spinning up dust in the neighborhood as she comes and goes!

Do you have a favourite author or book?

I sure do! I love Victoria Holt. My mom had all of her hardback books, which I now have on a special bookshelf. These are old books, historical romances, and I often find extra copies at thrift stores. I’ve even read many of Victoria Holt’s books twice. My favorite book is THE BLACK OPAL. This is kind of ironic, because I write contemporary romances. I really admire authors who have the knowledge and expertise to write in the genre of historical romance.

I adore Victoria Holt! I think I’ve read and re-read most of her books, including THE BLACK OPAL. Do you experience writer’s block? What do you do to get through it?

I do experience writer’s block at times. If I come to a dilemma in a story, I usually put my work away and just give it time. I also enjoy walking in the early evenings down our gravel driveway through the woods, and this is when I come up with many ideas for characters and details. It’s my quiet time, and the peaceful surroundings (we live in a rural area) are really conducive to creativity. I keep notebooks in many rooms of our home so that I can easily jot down ideas when they come to mind.

Are you a morning person or a night owl?

I am definitely a morning person. I really enjoy reading in the morning with my first cup of coffee. I go to bed early and have been doing this since Jake was little. I go to bed around 8:30pm on some nights! I’m usually tuckered out by then!

Check out this gorgeous cover:

Fresh out of a broken engagement, Tessa Stanley is in desperate need of a distraction from her ex-fiancé’s betrayal—and she finds it in the form of a man lurking around her 84-year-old neighbor’s home. Little does she know when she calls the police, the trespasser is none other than Nicholas Beck, the local fireman and her neighbor’s great-nephew. Talk about a bad first impression!

Thankfully, Nicholas shows her the beauty of grace and forgiveness, and as the seasons turn, the two grow closer. But when her ex shows up on her doorstep, begging for forgiveness, Tessa might be at risk of losing more than just her heart.

Here is an excerpt from THE AUTUMN KEEPSAKE:

Now, all of a sudden, she found herself at a loss for words. “I thought I should apologize one more time for the other day, I shouldn’t have jumped to conclusions,” she stammered.

His smile told her he wasn’t in the least concerned. “Like I told you, I’m glad you’re looking out for my Aunt Thelma. I don’t always call her my great-aunt, she’s more like my aunt,” he further explained. “And she thinks she can do absolutely anything, but she is getting older. I’m glad she has a good neighbor that cares about her.”

Apparently, he was finished working because he began gathering his tools, placing them in the toolbox of his truck as he spoke, looking at Tessa rather curiously.

“Where’s your daughter?”

“My daughter?” Tessa repeated his question, confused.

“Laura. Don’t you have a daughter named Laura? I heard you and my aunt mention her.”

“No, Laura is my bluetick hound dog.” Tessa laughed heartily.

“Really?” Nicholas asked with a look of interest.

“Yes. People often laugh at her name. But there’s a really special reason why I named her Laura. My grandfather gave her to me when I was eleven.” She didn’t want to ramble too much, and only her closest friends knew the real meaning behind Laura’s name.

He had closed his toolbox and was standing in front of her, taking off his work gloves. “I love hounds. My family has had many hound dogs over the years, but rarely do you see blueticks as pets. Interesting.” He used the word interesting a lot when referring to her. He rubbed his chin, seemingly in deep thought. “I’d like to meet her some time.”

Link to buy THE AUTUMN KEEPSAKE: https://amzn.to/3d1mhNE

Love this! What’s next for you as an author?

I have a Christmas novella which is coming out from Anaiah Press on November 4th, and a summer novella to be released in July of next year. I am very honored and excited!

You’re a busy author for sure! Thank you for sharing your story with us. Where can people find you online?

You can find me on social media at…

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

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

I love to connect with readers, so please drop by and say hello!

Thanks so much for joining us, Michelle. I’m looking forward to your Christmas novella in November!

The post Author Interview with Michelle Lowe appeared first on Laurie Wood Author.

Welcome back to the Blog, Carole! Please tell our readers a bit about yourself.

I’m a widowed mom of three adult kids. I live in a rural area in Michigan about five miles from where I grew up. I attended college for journalism and also spent some time in Mexico studying Spanish. I married the man of my dreams and had a wonderful 20 years with him. My faith is the foundation for everything I do in life.

Give us a quick taste for your latest book, The Reluctant Billionaire:

Jessica returns home after a divorce and her friend and neighbor, Liam, is there to help her pick up the pieces of her heart. Although Liam has been in love with Jessica for years, the fact that she was married meant he couldn’t show her how he felt. Now that she is single again, he decides to show her how much he cares. As their friendship grows into a romantic relationship they face many challenges, not the least of which is problems with Jessica’s ex.

What was the catalyst for your interest in writing?

We moved to a new school when I was in second grade. I didn’t adjust well and cried a lot. I saw a school counselor along with two other children. She played games with us to help us deal with our emotions. One day she told us to go home and write a story. I wrote about a pet rabbit. She had me read my story aloud to the kindergarten class. And that’s when the author in me was born.

Do you have a day job? If so, how do you find time in your day to write?

I’m a housekeeping aide for the elderly. I like serving the people I work for and it’s great exercise. I work part time, so I have free time before and after work.

Are you a night owl or morning person?

Definitely a morning person. I like to get up before four o’clock in the morning, fix a cup of coffee and enjoy the quiet time.

Do you reward yourself when a book is finished? If so, what is your favorite treat?

I used to reward myself with cake. Then I decided that wasn’t very good for me. Now I buy a package of my favorite flavor coffee.

Are you a plotter or a panster?

Definitely a panster. I have a rough outline of where I want the story to go, but it develops as I sit down at the computer and type.

Do you have a favorite author or book?

Grace Livingston Hill would be my all-time favorite author. I have a collection of 100 of her books. The Gold Shoe and The Substitute Guest top my list of favorites.

What’s next for you as an author?

I’m working on a holiday novella. I haven’t ruled out a sequel to The Reluctant Billionaire, but I have to get some of the important details figured out before I can proceed with it.

Here’s your lovely cover and a brief excerpt from the book:

“Liam’s here.” Her dad’s voice carried from the living room, jarring Jessica from her thoughts.

She took a deep breath and left her bedroom. Despite this being a fake date, there was nothing fake about the way her heart started racing when she walked into the living room and saw Liam standing there. He looked red-carpet ready in his black tux. It fit him as naturally as his work clothes or swim trunks. His white shirt set off his suntanned face with his trimmed beard.

His mouth gaped as his gaze swept over her. “Wow, you look great.” He walked over and stood in front of her.

“You’re too tall for Liam,” Julie said. “You should ditch the heels for something shorter.”

He put his hand on Jessica’s shoulder, and she blushed. “It’s okay. I like to be able to look her in the eye,” he said.

“Are you sure? I have a different pair of heels that would put me a couple of inches shorter.”

“You’re fine.” His voice was husky.

Jessica held up a necklace and a string of pearls. “I can’t decide which to wear. What do you think?”

Liam pulled a velvet box out of his pocket. Jessica gasped when he opened it, revealing a silver necklace with diamonds and sapphires. The necklace was obviously a Douglas Engstrom original and probably worth a fortune.

“Would you consider this appropriate?”

“It’s beautiful.” Jessica lightly touched the gems. “But it’s too valuable to wear.”

“I thought you could wear it in memory of Dad.”

“Oh, but—” Her gaze flew to his. “You should save this for someone special.”

His face paled, and she could tell he struggled with what to say.

Jessica’s dad stepped forward. “I think it’s a great idea. Fasten that thing around her neck.”

Liam hesitated. The velvet box moved as his hand trembled. He was nervous.

“I can do it.” Her mom took the necklace out of the box. “Turn around, Jessica.”

When Jessica turned her back to Liam and her mom, she met Julie’s enraged expression. And her dad’s gentle one. He seemed pretty pleased Liam was asking her to wear the necklace. Did her dad have an ulterior motive in mind? Was he trying to be a matchmaker? That was an unusual thing for him to do.

She walked over to the hall mirror. The reflection was of a sophisticated woman with her hair swept up and perfect makeup. Her dress shimmered in the light, and the diamonds and sapphires sparkled at her throat.

Liam appeared in the mirror behind her. His admiring gaze nearly took her breath away.

“I guess I’m ready.” She spoke a little too loudly, stepping away from the mirror and picking up her silver clutch.

© Carole Underhill 2021

Here’s the back cover copy and

you can buy yourself a copy here:  https://amzn.to/3wad6zR 

The Reluctant Billionaire

With her husband’s ultimate betrayal, and the finalization of her divorce, Jessica Palmer’s dreams for her life go up in flames, leaving her devastated and lost. Now, she’s leaving Chicago and moving back into her parents’ house in an effort to rebuild her life. Longtime neighbor and friend, Liam Engstrom, is the only reason she hasn’t completely fallen apart, but the closer they get, the more she realizes the depth of his feelings.

Liam has loved Jessica since they were teens, but she never noticed him as more than a friend. Now that she’s single, he’s determined to show her how much he cares and that not all men are like her ex-husband–if she’ll let him.

Jessica is reluctant to trust again after what her husband did to her, and Liam refuses to be the rebound guy, but their attraction is hard to deny. So, together, with a little help from God, they decide to give love a chance. But between Liam’s recent inheritance and an unwanted public billionaire status that has people lining up with their hands out, and Jessica’s ex-husband monitoring her every move, their relationship is off to a rocky start. And when tragedy strikes, Liam pushes everyone away—including Jessica. Can they both learn to forgive and grow, or are they doomed to be alone?

You can find Carole online here:

www.authorcarolunderhill.com

www.facebook.com/authorcarolunderhill

www.twitter.com/@carolunderhill7

Thanks again for sharing your story today, Carole! If anyone has a question for Carole about her books or her writing, please drop it in the comments and she’ll be happy to answer it for you.

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Excerpt #9 – Chapter 2:

“Your niece?” Ben sat back in his chair; his body language as open as possible to encourage her to keep talking. He liked Connie and knew she and her husband had worked hard to keep Izzie in school last year. “I didn’t know you had siblings in town.”

“I don’t,” she whispered. “That’s what’s so horrible. Sherida’s my sister’s girl from Winnipeg. Candice sent her up here for the summer to keep her away from some young guy they didn’t want her involved with, and now she’s missing, too.” She reached a shaking hand to grasp the water glass again. “Sherida’s a straight-A student. Never been in trouble before. And Candice trusted me to take care of her.”

Ben glanced over Connie’s shoulder at Zack’s wide-eyed expression. He was sure the girls were holed up at a friend’s house, safe and sound, and likely sleeping off too much beer. He gave Zack a subtle shake of the head.

“Can you give me the same information on Sherida? Just for the record, and then we’ll get started making some phone calls.”

“I’ve already called all of Izzie’s usual friends.” Connie sat straighter in her chair.

“Okay, we can follow up with some door knocking. What’s Sherida’s full name?”

“Sherida Doreen Stewart. She was named for our two grandmothers. Her date of birth is today…” Connie’s voice trembled. “August 1, 2003. She’s taller than my Izzie. 5’ 4” and about 130 lbs. Dark brown hair and brown eyes. Double-pierced ears. I don’t know about any identifying marks—I couldn’t see any tattoos, and I can’t imagine my sister would let her get one.”

Ben typed quickly. “What’s her parents’ contact information?”

“Candice Stewart, 204-555-0956, 134 Arlington Street, Winnipeg, Manitoba.”

“Okay, that’s a good start. Have you contacted your sister yet?”

Connie shrank down again. “No, I was hoping we’d find them this morning.”

“Honestly, Connie, I’m sure they’re sleeping it off at a friend’s place. Someone Izzie’s never mentioned to you before.” Ben fiddled with a pen on his desk. “Has she got a new boyfriend? Would this Jolene have told you about him if she did?”

“Not usually, but Jolene’s mom was super angry with her this morning, so I think she would’ve said something. She’s grounded, so she has no reason to keep secrets.”

Kids always keep secrets from their parents. He passed a piece of paper and his pen over to Connie. “Please write down the addresses of Izzie’s friends, and I’ll go check them out.

It’s harder to lie to the cops than someone’s mom on the phone.”

“You don’t mind?” Connie looked incredulous. She took the paper and started scribbling words down.

“Of course not.” Ben hoped he wouldn’t have to roust ten girls from their hangover slumbers. “We’ll find both girls, and everything will be fine. You’ll see.” He put his computer to sleep. “I’ll let you know as soon as we know anything.”

Connie stood with him. “Thanks. I feel silly now…”

Ben towered over her as he walked her to the front of the station. “No need to worry. Better safe than sorry.” He lifted the latch on the through-door at the counter. “I’ll get back to you, I promise.”

Connie seemed to shrink into herself again as she paused with her hand on the front door’s crash bar. She nodded to them without speaking and left.

“Where do you think they are?” asked Zack.

Ben fingered the paper Connie’d given him. “Hopefully, at one of these houses. Let’s go.” He put on his sunglasses and grabbed his notebook. Except teens always lie to their parents. He sighed. Lies and secrets. I’m definitely back home in Churchill.

Each book had a different type of hero:

Lukas Tanner was an outdoorsman/adventurer,

Ben Koper was in law enforcement,

and Jake Miller was a chef and business owner.

What kind of hero do you most love to read about? 

Leave a comment and be entered into a draw for an E-book copy of any one of my three books in the Heroes of the Tundra series. Thanks for joining me this month for Reader Appreciation!

The post Here’s an Excerpt from NORTHERN PROTECTOR (Heroes of the Tundra Book 2) appeared first on Laurie Wood Author.

Excerpt #7 – Chapter 2:

When she turned towards him, he recognized Connie Baker, who ran one of the gift shops on Kelsey Boulevard. He put his hands flat on the counter.

“Hey, Connie. Everything all right?”

The woman stopped pacing and leaned her upper body on the countertop. “Oh, Ben.

I heard you’re back.”

“Wow, that got around fast,” he said.

Her swollen eyes were red-rimmed, and she grasped shredded tissues in one hand. She wiped her nose before speaking again.

“It’s my daughter, Izzie.” She looked down at her hands, and tears rolled down her chin onto her fingers. She wiped them away and cleared her throat. “Izzie and her cousin.

They didn’t come home the last night. I’ve called all her friends.”

Ben grabbed the box of tissues from Trudy’s desk and passed it to her. He flipped the inner lock off the hidden gate on the counter to open it, so it made a pass-through. “Why don’t you come in here, and I’ll take the report?”

Connie seemed to shrink into herself as she entered the bullpen. Ben knew it could be intimidating for some townspeople, making a police report. Zack hovered nearby.

Ben motioned to the chair beside his new-to-him desk. “Can we get you a coffee?

Water?”

Connie sat on the edge of the chair and shook her head. She kept wiping tears from her cheeks with the back of one hand. “I’m so sorry,” she whispered. “My husband said to wait another couple of hours, but I don’t know. Izzie always stays over at her friend Jolene’s place and now…” The tears started up again.

“And now?” Ben probed gently.

“I phoned Jolene this morning, and she said she never saw Izzie or Sherida last night or the night before. It was a lie Izzie told me. There was no party at Jolene’s, so I have no idea where they went. Jolene was home ‘cause she was grounded.” Connie sniffed and wiped her nose again. “Her mom told me that, so I know it’s true.”

Ben looked at Zack and said, “Can you please get Mrs. Baker a glass of water?” He raised his eyebrows until Zack got the message and left for the water. Then he turned to his computer and pulled up a missing person’s form. “Let’s start with your daughter. I’ll need a few particulars. What’s her full name?”

“Isabella Dawn Baker. She goes by Izzie.”

“And her date of birth?”

“February 5, 2002. She just graduated high school this June.”

“Okay, does she have any identifying marks or tattoos?”

Connie sniffed and then thanked Zack as he handed her a glass of water. She took a small sip and placed it on the desk. “No, nothing. We would never let her get a tattoo.

Her ears have five piercings in each of them.” “Height and weight?”

Connie began crying again.

“I’m sorry,” said Ben. “I know these questions are upsetting, but we’re going to find her. It’ll be all right.”

Never make promises to citizens, he heard his training officer’s voice in his head from years ago. Never promise them you’ll find a loved one. But Churchill was a small, remote, place. How far could two girls have gone in one night?

“She’s about 5’2” and 120 lbs. She’s always worrying she’s too fat.” Connie sniffled again. “She was wearing green khaki shorts and a camo tank top with a lavender hoodie last night. And she had a ton of makeup on.”

“Thanks, Connie, that’s really helpful.” Ben typed it all into the computer report.

“When was the last time you saw her?”

“She and her cousin left just after nine-thirty last night. She said they were going to Jolene’s, but they…” She stopped and clenched her fists in her lap. “They never showed up there. I have no idea where they went, and Jolene said Izzie hadn’t told her anything. Her mother put the fear of God into her to tell me the truth.”

“And what’s Jolene’s full name and address?”

Connie took another sip of water. “Jolene Shaw. They live at 42 Edge Street.”

“Has Izzie ever not come home before?”

“A couple of times, but she was always at Jolene’s place.” Connie raised her tearstained face to his. “She’s a bit wild, but not this wild. And my niece…” She stifled a sob.

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Excerpt #6 – Chapter 2:

Ben held Connolly’s gaze. He’d had two plastic surgeries already and figured he’d eventually deal with the rest of the scarring, but cosmetic surgery didn’t come cheap in Canada. Anyway, up here, it would be a badge of honour. If he’d taken a southern posting, people would have stared relentlessly, and working in the field would be insufferable.

Connolly broke away first, much to Ben’s satisfaction. “I’ve got something I want you to look into, a cold case from Winnipeg they want us to go through again.” He passed a thick manila file folder over his desk to Ben. “She was from here and turned up dead in Winnipeg three years ago. I figured you could reinterview the relatives, see if they remember anything new. Get your feet wet again.”

Ben opened the file and looked at the photo attached to the left-hand side of the folder. A stunning teenage girl smiled into the camera. It was a selfie taken in a brightly lit bathroom—not one of the homes up here—maybe a motel down south? She wore a yellow tank top, jean shorts, and two gold necklaces holding a tiny gold cross and a bird charm. Her highlighted lustrous brown hair curled around her face and shoulders. She playfully held up a water bottle to her lips, smiling into the camera.

He started scanning the first page: Morag Raider—Caucasian; date of birth April 16, 1999; 5’2”; 105 lbs.; light brown curly hair, medium length; blue eyes; no tattoos; appendectomy scar; ears pierced; dental records on file in Churchill. Left Churchill June 22, 2016 on the train to Winnipeg to visit her older sister. Last known address showed she was living with her aunt Ruby Gallagher at 36 Tillman St.

“Ruby’s her aunt? She lived with her for how long?”

Connolly waved a dismissive hand. “I have no idea. There are interview reports in there from us and the guys in Winnipeg who spoke to her sister once they tracked her down. The girl turned up dead quick once she hit the big city. Do a recanvas and update the file.”

Ben nodded and rose to leave.

“Try and remember your shift starts at 0645 hours. Dismissed.”

Dismissed. Like he thinks this is the military. Which I would’ve been in, except for my stupid peanut allergy. Ben fought the urge to salute him and left the office, clutching the file folder.

Morag Raider was Ruby Gallagher’s niece. Well, that was a revelation. He’d never heard Ruby refer to her before. He thought he’d known all about Ruby’s family because she was open about her husband’s accidental boating death on the Churchill River seven years ago, and her son, Rory, owned the helicopter tour company in town. He’d better swing by the café to find out more about Morag.

He grabbed his cold coffee from Trudy’s desk and headed to the break room to nuke it in the microwave. Voices carried from the cell block as Adam set about releasing their two now sober individuals. Most of their drunken fights were harmless exchanges between transient workers up here doing construction on a government project. He heaved a sigh as the microwave beeped. It felt good to be back in familiar surroundings. He held out his right hand and stared at it. No tremors. Much better.

“Hey, new guy.” Zack stuck his head in the doorway. “You survived your first interview with Connolly. That’s good news.”

“I’m not the new guy. You’re the new guy,” Ben said before taking a scalding sip of coffee. “When did he post in, anyway?”

Zack came all the way into the room and closed the door. “He got sent here from D Division, Winnipeg two months ago. Got demoted from Sergeant for some reason. He’s bitter about it.”

“Gee, I couldn’t tell,” Ben quipped. The hot coffee was waking him up nicely.

“There’s someone at the counter. Can you take it?”

“You’re the new guy,” Ben said before taking another sip of coffee. “I’ve been up here nineteen months. Why don’t you take it?”

“Because she says she’ll only speak to you,” Zack said, leaning against the door frame. “Sorry, I’m Zack Lazar.” He stuck out his hand to shake Ben’s and gave it a solid grip. “Just got in from the academy. This is my first posting.”

Ben grinned. “Well, then, watch and learn, newbie.” He headed out the door, through the bullpen, and to the front counter where a woman paced, clutching her elbows.

Do you prefer romantic suspense novels or straight up mystery novels?

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