SRP Heroine Interview: Chloe Sullivan from Separate Ways

Today, we have Chloe Sullivan stopping by, please tell us a little bit about what is currently going on in your life?

My husband David vanished ten years ago, and since then I’ve worked hard to rebuild my life. I moved to New York City, got a great job managing an art gallery, and I was just offered the chance to debut my own paintings—if I can finish the gallery expansion on time. But then I found out that David suddenly reappeared, and it’s a huge distraction, you know? Not only is it bringing up a lot of old feelings, but from what little he remembers about last decade, it sounds like I was the one who disappeared. Somehow, I need to deal with that situation without missing my big opportunity.

What made you want your story to be told?

I wanted to show that you can both follow your heart and open it up to another person, too. Love can complicate things, but the right person can bring out strength you never knew you had.

What lead you to make the changes you did in your life?

After David disappeared, I spent just about every minute and dollar I had trying to find him. When I was finally broke, I sold the house and moved back in with my parents. At that point, I knew I had to move on. I’ve dreamed of being an artist in New York City since I was a little girl, and as much as I wanted David to share that dream with me, I couldn’t let the fact that he vanished stop me from trying to get there.

In your life, what has empowered you?

My parents have always been very supportive of my art. I almost gave up painting when my plans to go to art school fell through, but they encouraged me to stick with it. David felt guilty that we couldn’t move to New York after college, but he never doubted we would get there someday. His confidence in me, naïve as it was sometimes, stuck with me even after he vanished.

What are strengths and weaknesses?

I’m generally optimistic and I’m not afraid of hard work, but sometimes I rely too much on feeling my way through a problem rather than planning my approach. Hey, it works most of the time!

Describe what being a self-rescue princess (a strong, confident woman) means to you.

I think it’s about staying true to who you are and what you want, no matter how much your life changes. You have to believe in yourself enough to take chances, and have faith that the people who care most about you will back you up even in the craziest circumstances.

What one advice/wisdom would you like to pass onto young women?

Even if it takes longer than you think it should, even if your life gets turned completely upside down along the way, and even if your dreams change a little over time, keep chasing them. As hard as that can be sometimes, it’s always worth it.

Favorite quote or Bible verse.

“If something’s going wrong, you’re doing the job right.” My dad says that all the time, but I’m not sure whether he made it up or heard it somewhere. He’s in construction, and he hates it when subcontractors take shortcuts. Any job worth doing is going to have its challenges, and to do it right you have to work through them, you know?

Will you be continuing your journey in written form?

Kind of. I’m going to share some of my experiences from the ten years David was missing using an online interactive platform. It’s more of a prologue than a continuation, but I’m excited to tell more about how I got from that awful morning David disappeared to living my dream in New York City.

Is there anyone in your life (friend, family member) who will be sharing their life? 

I don’t know for sure, but I have a feeling my friend Emma may have an adventure or two in her future. Since she and David are like siblings—not to mention how much she helped me after he vanished—I’ll probably end up involved somehow!

 

SRP Heroine Interview: Cameron James from Dirty Deeds

Stopping in to visit us today is Cameron James who you can get to know in Dirty Deeds. Welcome, Cameron, please tell us a little bit about what is currently going on in your life?

Answer: Being a justice dealer is becoming a bit unnerving, as all of my targets call me Avenging Angel. How do they all call me by that name and not know each other? It’s weird.

At the same time, Devin, my best friend, is keeping secrets and I have a bad feeling whatever he isn’t telling me is something I would kill anyone else over. How am I supposed to deal with that?

There’s a bartender named Cole who looks more like a cop than a bartender. He’s one of my targets, yet I don’t think he did what he’s accused of doing. All I can do is watch him and wait, meanwhile I’m returning the client’s money. It’s the least I can do since I’m not willing to kill an innocent man.

If all of that weren’t enough, my mentor is a bit twitchy lately. Granted, I’m not exactly what Onyx had hoped for when he decided to train me — he teaches vengeance and I prefer dealing justice. My unconventional morals could be interpreted as a slap in his face, which could mean a fight to the death if he feels I’m refusing his teachings in any way.

The stress level is high around here, but as long as I keep my eyes open I should be okay.

What made you want your story to be told?

Answer: The way I deal with justice may be illegal, but I have my own moral code and I care for those who need protection. I’m working toward redemption not just for me but for the innocents of my city. They deserve it. I deserve it.

In your life, what has empowered you?

Answer: Fighting skills and weapons at my side make me feel safe and empowered to handle any situation I come across. The only time I feel helpless is when Onyx is around because he is master of my skills and far exceeds my abilities. All the same, he won’t be around forever and once I can break free of him I’ll be my own master.

Describe what being a self-rescue princess (a strong, confident woman) means to you.

Answer: It means that I don’t have to put up with any stupid things a man decides for me. I’m my own person and I don’t have to wait for anyone to complete me or help me with anything. I don’t need rescuing — I do the rescuing around here.

What one advice/wisdom would you like to pass onto young women?

Aspire to rescue yourself over and over again. Never put yourself in a situation where you can’t pull yourself up and out. Give yourself the tools to learn and grow without needing a man beside you.

If your story had a theme song, what would it be?

Answer: Dirty Deeds, by AC/DC

 

SRP Review: The Ship of Brides by Jojo Moyes

Disclaimer: The reviews I post on The Self Rescue Princess won’t be the usual style of book review that talks about all the points and elements of a novel. My intention is to focus on heroines that I believe exemplify the spirit and character of a self-rescuing princess or are on their way to achieving that status.

The Ship of Brides by Jojo Moyes showcased a group of war brides leaving Australia and journeying to England to meet up with their husbands. There were four brides who were featured in the book: Maggie, Avice, Frances and Jean. I was intrigued by each one of them.

At first, I found Maggie to be uncomplicated and the cheerleader of the group but as I grew to know her more, I realized there was a little more to Maggie than I originally thought. I found her character refreshing as she wasn’t the usual, cheerful mom-to-be but had insecurities and doubted her ability to mother. It made her come alive even more. I found her struggles real, and the fact she voiced them out loud rather than keep silent, made her a self-rescue princess to me. So many times, women keep their insecurities about motherhood quiet because they fear being judged and believe that to not love every moment of pregnancy or motherhood is saying you don’t  love your children.

Frances was more reserved than the other characters and even though I didn’t feel I knew her as well in the beginning of the book, something drew me to her. I think it was her quiet resolve and determination. Frances took everyone at face value even as she held them at arm’s length. She had a fierce spirit that came out at times and I was really rooting for everything to work out for her. I have to admit that she became my favorite character in the story. Frances was strong and forgiving without coming across as being a doormat. I think that’s a hard combination for a person to pull off, it’s easier to become bitter and close yourself off than giving others a chance. Even though Frances was reserved, she still allowed a tiny crack in the walls she built for others to come in.

One of the hardest things for a writer to do is write an unlikely character and yet make that character sympathetic. I found Avice at times snotty, off-putting, and hypocritical yet I found myself rooting for her because I was able to see the insecurity that drove her behavior. Even though she came from a financial stable family, it was clear that Avice felt lost and as if she had to prove her worth to her parents. While I still cringed at her behavior, it made me understand her more. I liked that Avice had a complex personality, not all light and yet not all dark, and struggled with she felt was expected of her.

What I loved most was how different each of the brides were yet in the end all had the same basic need to be loved for who they were. Each of the women went about achieving that goal in a different (and one I’m not sure did, but in my mind I have given her a much-needed and deserved happily ever after). I liked how The Ship of Brides portrayed accurately the complex friendships of women, and how loyalties can falter when one believes their character will be tied to a friend.

SRP Heroine Interview: Lady Elizabet Armstrong from An Oath Taken

1.Please tell us a little bit about what is currently going on in your life? 

I tend to be strong-willed, and I live in Wolfhaven Castle on the Scottish border.  Months ago, King Edward seized Falconshire Castle, a Scottish castle, as his own.  Then he installed the vile Sir Renaud as its castellan. The man is ruthless, but at least he’s dead.  Except, Sir Nicholas Beringar, the new English castellan has arrived, and sadly, my father, brother and many of my people captured during a previous attack are held within Falconshire’s dungeon.  Though my father has always doubted my abilities throughout life, and my steward forbids me to go near Falconshire Castle, I will do what needs to be done to free my family and people.

2. What lead you to make the changes you did in your life?

I was attempting to raise coin to bribe the castle guards of Falconshire Castle, which was failing miserably, when I mistakenly held up Sir Nicholas Beringar, the new castellan of Falconshire Castle.  Believing me a boy, he offered me the job as his squire.  Though the man is as handsome as formidable, I agreed as I believe once inside, I can figure out a way to free my family and people.  Once they’re safe, I will slip away and Sir Nicholas Beringar will be none the wiser.

3. In your life, what has empowered you?

What has empowered me in life is my close relation with my brother, Giric.  His love and belief in me when my father couldn’t spare me a kind word growing up has been my lifeline.  I would do anything to save to Giric.

4. What are strengths and weaknesses?

My strengths are my quick and creative decisions, that I’m fearless, and that I love deeply.  I’m not fond of admitting my weaknesses, but I tend to be stubborn, I don’t follow advice to well, and I allow my emotions to guide me vs. thinking things over.

5. Describe what being a self-rescue princess (a strong, confident woman) means to you.

The years of striving and never gaining my father’s approval hurt almost as much as those without his love.  This is my chance to prove myself worthy of his love, and to save my people.

6. What one advice/wisdom would you like to pass onto young women?

I would tell women to believe in themselves nd go after your dreams.

7. Favorite quote.

I love quotes!  I’ll share my favorite three!

“If you did not care at all what anyone else thought about you, what would you do differently or change in your life?” — Brian Tracy

“To hell with circumstances; I create opportunities.” — Bruce Lee

“No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.” — Eleanor Roosevelt

8. If your story had a theme song, what would it be?

~The soundtrack for King Arthur – Hans Zimmer.

9. Will you be continuing your journey in written form?

Sadly, I won’t appear in any of the other books in The Oath Trilogy, but I will be thought and mentioned in my brother’s book – #2 An Oath Broken, and my close friend’s book – #3 An Oath Sworn.

10. Is there anyone in your life (a friend or family member) who will be sharing their life?

I’m thrilled that my brother, Giric Armstrong, Earl of Terrick, will have the next story in The Oath Trilogy, “An Oath Broken,” and a very close friend, Colyne MacKerran, Earl of Strathcliff, will have the final book, “An Oath Sworn.”

About the author Diana Cosby:

A retired Navy Chief, AGC(AW), Diana Cosby is an international bestselling author of Scottish medieval romantic suspense.  Her award-winning MacGruder Brother books are available in five languages.  Diana has spoken at the Library of Congress, Lady Jane’s Salon in NYC, and appeared in Woman’s Day, on USA Today’s romance blog, “Happy Ever After,” MSN.com, Stars & Stripes, Atlantic County Women Magazine, and Texoma Living Magazine.

After her career in the Navy, Diana dove into her passion – writing romance novels. With 34 moves behind her, she was anxious to create characters who reflected the amazing cultures and people she’s met throughout the world.   With the release of her 6^th book in the bestselling MacGruder Brothers series, she’s now working on the 1^st book in her new Scottish medieval The Oath trilogy, “An Oath Taken,” which will be released December 8^th, 2014.  In addition, she’s excited about the upcoming release of the MacGruder Brother series box set early in 2015.

Diana looks forward to the years of writing ahead and meeting the amazing people who will share this journey.

www.dianacosby.com

Facebook:   http://www.facebook.com/pages/Diana-Cosby-Romance-Author/150109024636?ref=ts

Places where you can purchase An Oath Taken:

-Barnes and Noble:  http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/an-oath-taken-diana-cosby/1119908499?ean=9781601833075
-Amazon:  http://www.amazon.com/Oath-Taken-Trilogy-ebook/dp/B00LGZ9JMS/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1406395705&sr=1-1&keywords=An+Oath+Taken
-iTunes:  https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/an-oath-taken/id895504779?mt=11
-KOBO:  http://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/an-oath-taken

 

Heroine Interview: Katie James from the novel To Katie With Love

1. Please tell us a little bit about what is currently going on in your life? (book blurb)

Banker by day, romance novel addict by night…that’s me. I’d almost rather settle for a fictional boyfriend than risk my heart on a flesh-and-blood man. Besides, the only real guy I’m remotely interested in is my rich, unattainable client, the mysterious Cooper Maxwell.

Looking less like the ultra-conservative man I know and more like a drop-dead sexy character from one of my books, Cooper crashes my 29th birthday party. But one too many drinks lands me in uncharted territory… Cooper’s bedroom!

Drunk on love, I dive headfirst into the relationship only to discover Cooper is keeping secrets… dangerous ones. As if things couldn’t get worse, my meddling mother makes a surprise visit, digging up a whole new set of problems.

Who would have guessed having an assassin for a boyfriend would be the least of my worries?

2. What made you want your story to be told? (theme of your book if there is one)

Well, my story is a cautionary tale of sorts. Books are great until you start living vicariously through them to the point where you’re ignoring everything else. Silvia said I needed to share my story to the world so girls everywhere would realize we have to find balance in all things. And having a hot guy around doesn’t hurt either. 

3. What lead you to make the changes you did in your life?

My life was on the brink of imploding before the story even started. I mean, how long can a girl go on living without having a life? Woman cannot survive on fiction (or chocolate) alone, right? That’s not to say we’re defined by men…but we shouldn’t be defined by what we read either. I was hiding behind books to avoid the realities of life. That needed to change. And I guess I needed a nudge…or two.

4. In your life, what has empowered you?

I found strength within myself the minute I stopped worrying what everyone else thought. You can’t live your life by someone else’s rules. You can’t let your mother, or your friends, or even your boyfriend tell you what’s right for you. You have to find your own way…even if you have to be a little sneaky about it.

5. What are strengths and weaknesses?

I’ve discovered I’m a terrible spy. I gave it my all, but being a detective is NOT in the cards for me. However, I have discovered I have a sexy inner-strength I had no idea existed.

6. Describe what being a self-rescue princess (a strong, confident woman) means to you.

Being a self-rescue princess means I can take care of myself while at the same time acknowledging it’s nice to have someone else take care of me once in a while. I’m not a doormat. I have a backbone and I’m not afraid to use it!

7. What one advice/wisdom would you like to pass onto young women?

You can’t be in a successful relationship until you have faith in yourself. You’ll second guess everything until you find your own inner-strength and trust your instincts. And remember…a good book beats a bad boyfriend, every day of the week.

8. Favorite quote or Bible verse.

All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn’t hurt.
– Charles M. Schulz –

9.  If your story had a theme song, what would it be?

Hey Katie, by Josh Kelley. That is most definitely the theme song.

10. Will you be continuing your journey in written form?

There is a distinct possibility for more. In fact, I’m sure of it. But giving away too much would spoil the surprise.

11. Is there anyone in your life (friend, family member) who will be sharing their life?

I have no doubt Vicky would like a story all her own, but whether or not she’ll get one is entirely up to her. She is pretty pushy though…so I wouldn’t put it past her.

If you’re interested in reading Katie’s story, you can find the book at the following places:

Book Links:

Kindle: http://www.amazon.com/To-Katie-With-Love-ebook/dp/B00CIY2A40/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1366926213&sr=1-1&keywords=to+katie+with+love

Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/to-katie-with-love-erica-lucke-dean/1115197331?ean=2940016551333&isbn=2940016551333

Kobo: http://www.kobobooks.com/ebook/To-Katie-With-Love/book-wUbrooAwekOfeY94zoeWRQ/page1.html?s=wsX4qAW9FkahVq9wc5TLPw&r=1

If you’d like to know more about the author of To Katie With Love, you can find her at:

Website: http://ericaluckedean.com/

Wattpad: http://www.wattpad.com/user/ericaluckedean

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/13410825-erica-lucke-dean

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/ericaluckedean

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Long Gone, New Beginnings Book 4, Now Out

Long Gone has been the toughest of this series to write as I wanted to fight the book every step of the way. There were two elements of the plot that needed to be in the book but I was uncertain of how readers would react to them … and frankly I was scared to write them as I didn’t know if I could do the issue/situation justice. I am very proud of this book (not that I’m not proud of the others). I know I stretched myself in this book and conquered so my fears and insecurities in doing so. Long Gone, more than the other books I wrote in this series, developed naturally on its own. I had to be willing to pull back from controlling the story and allow it to come as it needed to. This book ended up being what writers term “a book of the heart” when it was completed. I had no idea the impact it would have on me or the emotions it would bring up until I was done writing it.

I went into writing this book “knowing” the story. I knew the hero, heroine, the plot and the main conflict between them … until the story twisted in a way I hadn’t planned on and really hadn’t wanted. But, I did what the story needed and discovered I didn’t  know the real story needing to be told, the heart of this book, until the very end.

Blurb:

Eve Darling won’t allow a repeat of the past. Eight years ago, her boyfriend convinced her to place their baby for adoption with his older brother. Once the adoption was finalized, the ‘love of her life’ abandoned her. When the brother announces his intent to run for governor…and adopt a new child…Eve decides to reveal the man behind the public facade. When no one believes the story, Eve turns to skip-tracer Alexander Stratford to unearth the truth, and stop another woman from being used by the Fallows.

Alex is stunned when Eve Darling shows up and requests help. The woman who once accused him of murder now accuses another man. Alex refuses to be used to damage another person. When Eve is attacked, Alex rushes to her aid– and a quick decision alters lives forever. Can anyone ever truly love him…when he can’t like the man he’s become?

Excerpt:

“You’re a menace.” He lifted up the visor and glared at her.

She shot one right back. “I wanted to talk to you. It wasn’t my fault you were speeding.”

“I wasn’t–” Forget it. If one thing he knew about Eve Darling it was no person on the face of the Earth could talk sense into the woman. She lived in a world where only her goals and herself matter. Heck with everyone else. “Go about your business. I’m fine.”

Alex limped toward his motorcycle. Pain arced up his leg with each step. He should stop but didn’t want to show weakness in front of anyone — especially Eve. The woman had set out to destroy him once and her reappearance in his life meant she was gearing up for round two.

Eve placed a gentle hand on his shoulder. “Are you sure you should?”

“Ignore you? Yes.”

“Move. You look kind of rough.” Eve pointed at his arm then his legs.

A tear ran down the length of the arm of his leather jacket. At least it protected his hide for the most part. Patches of skin were torn off his legs, the left leg bearing the worst injury. Blood ran down his knee, staining his jeans and his running shoes.

“Let me help.”

“You’ve helped enough.” Alex struggled to get the Night Rod righted as pain coursed down his arm.

“Please, I need to talk to you.” Eve sighed and fixed her deep brown eyes on him, sadness mixed with a little excitement lurked in the depths.

Alex wanted no knowledge of the thoughts running through her conniving mind. “I’d rather you didn’t.”

“I need your help, Alex.” She glanced over her shoulder then stepped closer to him. Her lilac perfume weaved around him. The delicate scent was such a strong contrast to the abrasive woman. Alex felt a little tug in his heart. The same twinge he always got when he allowed the protective urge to override common sense. Not this time.

“No way.” Alex stepped away from her and the enticing scent.

“I’m serious. There’s a woman in trouble. A lot of trouble and she needs help.”

“Go to the police.”

“I tried. They don’t believe me.”

After what happened — what she did — when they first met, she expected him to help her? Was Eve Darling out of her mind or think he was a total idiot? Or a glutton for pain and punishment. Okay, he already knew the answer to the first question. The woman expected him to help her after she caused a wreck, and had accused him of being a murderer a little over a year ago. Not a chance. He wasn’t as stupid as she thought.

SRP Heroine Interview – Tricia Hunter from Eye of the Beholder

Today, I’m interviewing Tricia Hunter from the novel Eye of the Holder by Patty Froese. I hope you enjoy the interview.

1. Please tell us a little bit about what is currently going on in your life? 

I felt like I’d lost everything! This is going to sound incredibly shallow, but I used to be gorgeous. I was the kind of woman who never had to open a door for herself. But that was before the accident, and now I look much different. My face is badly scarred, and while the doctors did their best to restore my looks, they didn’t quite succeed. I lost whatever it was I used to have. That was what made me go out to that cabin in the woods–to make peace with all of this.

2. What made you want your story to be told?

I think we all struggle with our looks on some level, and I learned something through all of this that I want to share: you’re beautiful. It’s not about cheekbones or skin tone. It’s about something deeper.

3. What lead you to make the changes you did in your life?

I don’t think I chose to change. First of all, the accident changed my looks, and then my attitude had to adjust, or I would have ended up a very bitter woman. I think the hardest changes in life are thrust upon us.

 4. In your life, what has empowered you?

My good looks used to be my source of personal power. I knew what I could get and who would bend over backwards to get my attention. Now, that’s changed.

5. What are strengths and weaknesses?

I’m still insecure sometimes, and that is definitely my biggest weakness. My biggest strength is in these scars, though. God lets these things happen for a reason, and I think that these scars have forced me to see myself in a different way–through His eyes instead of a random stranger’s.

 6. Describe what being a self-rescue princess (a strong, confident woman) means to you.

I used to be a princess waiting for a rescue, but when you no longer have that option available, you simply have to suck it up and get the job done. I’m proud of who I am now. I’m stronger. I’m self-reliant. I’m also in love with an incredible guy.

 7. What one advice/wisdom would you like to pass onto young women?

You’re beautiful. I don’t care about your size or your bone structure. You’re gorgeous, and the sooner you see that beauty in yourself, the sooner you’ll realize how God sees you. And the funny thing is, other people start seeing you differently, too.

 8. Favorite quote or Bible verse.

Like a gold ring in a pig’s snout is a beautiful woman who shows no discretion.

Proverbs 11:22

 9.  If your story had a theme song, what would it be?

You Are So Beautiful (to me)

10. Will you be continuing your journey in written form?

No, I don’t think so.

11. Is there anyone in your life (friend, family member) who will be sharing their life?

Not this time.

Love might be in the air — Faith and Ted (from Cropped to Death)

As a little Valentine treat, I’m posting an excerpt from Cropped to Death that features Detective Ted Roget, one of the men vying for Faith’s attention. (stay tuned for a scene featuring Steve Davis).

From Cropped to Death, A Faith Hunter Scrap This Mystery:

Arriving home, I hit the button and popped the trunk, then scrambled from the driver’s seat. I gathered up the bags of groceries and balanced dinner, my purse, and the keys while I opened up the door. Where was Steve or Hank now? No one ever lurked when a person needed help with the groceries.

I plopped the bags on the empty countertop, then hurried upstairs to change from the nice blouse I wore to work into a Mountaineers t-shirt. I was a messy cook. The biggest clue to what I made for dinner was my shirt. As I was twisting my hair into a messy bun, the phone rang. I let the answering machine take the call.

Returning to the kitchen, I removed the chicken from the grocery store’s self-service bag and arranged the pieces on a serving platter. At least the main entrée could look pretty. I filled a pot with water and set it on the stove.

The doorbell sung. Turning the knob on the stove, I set it on high then raced for the front door. My grandmothers arrived early to ensure dinner got made.

I tugged open the door and shouted an enthusiastic hello. “Hey Gram—”

The grin froze on my face.

Detective Roget leaned against the door frame, looking me up and down. “I hear you have questions for me.”

Everyone in this town, except for the murderer, had a hard time keeping secrets. I stood in the middle of the threshold. “I don’t have anything to say to you. I went to the police station to verify something Karen England said.”

“Is that so?” He pulled out a small notebook from the pocket of his jacket. “I bet I’m right to assume this has something to do with a certain case I’ve asked…” He held up his index finger. “Let me correct that, told you, to stay out of.”

“I am staying out of it. The reporter came to me and made some allegations about Marilyn. I decided I should check into what she said.”

“And what would those allegations be?”

I rolled my eyes. “I’m sure you know because you helped plant them into her story.”

“You think well of me don’t you?” His sarcasm came through loud and clear.

Sizzles popped in the background. I groaned and ran into the kitchen. The water started boiling. Hard. Grabbing a potholder, I removed the lid to calm the hot bubbling liquid. I blew on the roiling water. For some reason I always thought it sped up the cooling process.

Praying I didn’t burn myself, I dumped in the box of macaroni then took the cheese from the refrigerator.

“I guess I don’t need to call the fire department.”

I spun around. Detective Roget, cell phone in hand, stood in the kitchen and glanced around the area. The open floor plan allowed him a look at my living and dining room. The dining room I had converted into a craft area was messy and disorganized.

“The water just boiled over,” I said.

“You shouldn’t leave unattended items cooking.”

Viciously, I grated the mild cheddar cheese into a bowl. “I thought my grandmothers were at the door. Not you. You were the one who asked questions and distracted me.”

“You were the one who came by the police station and played amateur sleuth.”

I almost dropped the cheddar. I placed the remainder of the block down then went to refrigerator. I yanked open the door and gazed inside, stalling until I had a good response. Or at least until Roget forgot what he said.

He let out a long-suffering sigh. “Does it occur to you, Miss Hunter, that I’m quite capable at doing my job? People read way too many books where the damsel in distress solves the case and the day.”

I slammed the door and turned around. “I’m not in distress. And how would I know how capable you are when you arrested the wrong person? You jumped to the first conclusion you could. If what I said can be used against my friend, then why can’t what I’ve learned help her get out of jail?”

“Because this isn’t Monopoly. There isn’t some kind of get out of jail card up for bartering.”

“I’m not bartering. I want you to see the truth. Sometimes the truth isn’t just what you hear. It’s about what you don’t.” I stirred the pasta.

“Now I get you.” The low tone rumbled from Detective Roget. He rested a hand on my shoulder, kneading the muscle with gentle fingers. “Listen, Faith, you’re not to blame for your friend getting arrested. My case is based on a lot more evidence. Evidence you don’t know about.”

The relaxing touch lulled the anger I had at him. But I couldn’t allow it to continue. Stepping away, I tilted my head and looked at his face. His rugged features softened and compassion lurked in his green eyes.

“I can’t mention specifics. But I will let you know Marilyn was seen talking to Michael before—”

“He was murdered. I read that. How do you know that person isn’t lying? Maybe Annette Holland made it up so you wouldn’t suspect her. Why wouldn’t a murderer lie?”

“The person I talked with is very reliable. Even you’d agree. You have to realize I’m not the bad guy here.” He walked to the front door and paused with his hand on the knob. “And for the record, I’m available.”

The Grace Filled Christmas Blog Tour — Christina Freeburn

Thank you for joining me on the next stop of The Grace Filled Christmas Blog Tour, sponsored by the Grace Awards which has the goal of expanding the tent pegs of Christian literature. This tour features scores of talented Christian fiction writers.

Today, I’m introducing you to my Inspirational Romantic Suspense Series, New Beginnings, which features heroines and heroes who are determined to help women have a new start at life.

The first book, I’d like to talk about is Safe and Sound, the third book in the series, but one that has a Christmas time setting.

 Safe and Sound, the third book in the New Beginning Series, is a contemporary Christian romantic suspense novel. It’s a sweet romance with some blushing moments. There is some mild violence and sophisticated themes.

Four years prior, Hannah Stratford got lost during a blizzard and the mountain claimed her, leaving her husband Connor Stratford grief-stricken and filled with guilt. When a woman’s body was discovered after an explosion, Connor learned her death wasn’t accidental but a probable murder. Now, one of the men responsible  for Hannah’s death is hunting down another woman. To keep the young woman safe and draw the murderer to him, Connor offers her safety and shelter in his home.

When the woman claims to be his wife Hannah, Connor finds his past and present pulled apart. Is this woman who she claims she is…or is she running a scam with the man who murdered his wife?

What makes Safe and Sound perfect for Christmas reading and gifting?

With a Christmas setting and a theme of forgiveness and love, Safe and Sound reflects the spirit of the Christmas season and also the hope of renewal.

Link to Buy: Safe and Sound

Even though Safe and Sound is the third book in the series, it doesn’t need to be read after the first two books in the series. Each book stands alone and features a new couple, one (or two) of the characters introduced in another book. Since some readers do like reading books in order, I’m including information about Lost Then Found and Led Astray below.

Lost Then Found, Book 1 in the New Beginning Series, is a contemporary Christian Romantic Novel. It’s a sweet romance with some blushing moments. There is some mild violence and sophisticated themes.

Skip-tracer Renee Stratford-Knight’s life is becoming stable again. Eighteen months prior, the murder of her sister and the soon-to-follow collapse of her marriage left her reeling. She made it through those dark days with the help of family, embracing faith and starting her own skip-tracing business, New Beginnings, which specializes in relocating abused women. Now, her ex-husband — and former business partner — Jonas Knight shows up asking about her most
vulnerable client.

Jonas knows his ex-wife helped embezzler Gina Howard elude the authorities and plans to bring the young woman to justice. When Renee is threatened, Jonas grows suspicious of his client’s reason for finding his niece. In order to uncover the secrets their clients hold, Jonas and Renee must struggle through distrust and the pain of their pasts to work together to save the life of a teenage girl — and their own.

Link to buy: Lost Then Found

Led Astray, the second book in the New Beginning Series, is a contemporary Christian romantic suspense novel. It’s a sweet romance with some mild violence and sophisticated themes.

When a client’s privacy is threatened by a Hatfield and McCoy battle erupting, skip-tracer Danita Ballinger heads to Mourning, WV, hoping to settle the feud before it starts. Danita’s rescuing is seen as interference and improper by Pastor Riley Coole, the target for the mining company’s strong-arm tactics.

Pastor Riley Coole isn’t pleased by the person his uncle hired to ‘help’ the town. The outspoken, brazen young woman isn’t who they need. Riley prefers the calm approach to dealing with the mining company not a fight fire-with-fire plan.

When a murderer targets the key players in the mining war, and retaliation is set into motion, Danita and Riley must put aside their private battle to protect the people relying on them for safety. Will seeing each other in a new light put them on a path of acceptance and true love, or create a further divide ripping apart the town and their own hearts?

Link to buy: Led Astray

Thank you so much for stopping by and ‘visiting’ with me and learning more about these stories which are ‘books of my heart’. These are still I felt compelled to write, as they wouldn’t leave my mind or heart until I got into the computer.

The Grace Filled Christmas Blog Tour runs through to December 22nd. Don’t forget to check out all the other authors on the tour. Below is a link telling you who all the authors on the tour are and what dates they will be on their own blog sharing about their novels.

http://graceawardsdotorg.wordpress.com/grace-filled-christmas-blog-tour-2012/

SRP Heroine Interview: Elizabeth from Nurtured in Purple

1. Please tell us a little bit about what is currently going on in your life?

Well, my book blurb would say this: One man. One woman (that’s me). Each bent on personal vendettas. Another man. Another woman wanting only to be God’s salt and light.

But I can tell of an amazing thing that has happened in my life in the past six months. For so many years I had been as narcissistic as one could be. The awful thing is I was oblivious to my self-centered behavior. I had been given everything I needed in life to be the spoiled, rich girl. I had a tizzy fit and acted stupid when I couldn’t have the man I wanted and since I couldn’t have him, I made life hard for the woman he wanted, Kate.

2. What made you want your story to be told?

I want others to know that we can change, with God’s grace and love, and I want to tell the of the change which happened to me. I know it’s hard to believe, but Kate is the one who didn’t turn away from me in spite of how I treated her. Her kindness made me see the selfish woman I was and made me want to change. In my case, redemption did shine brighter on a darker canvas.

3. What lead you to make the changes you did in your life?

I thought it was Kate who led me to change, but she pointed out it was really God at work. I hadn’t given God much thought in my life until then. I had seen my husband, Willard, make dramatic changes in his life due to the spiritual influence of Kate’s husband, Seth. Previously, both Willard and I had wanted nothing but bad for Kate and Seth, which shows how misdirected we both were.

4. In your life, what has empowered you?

In my previous life, money and social status and my looks empowered me. Now, I know the power of real love-for my husband and baby, my friends, others. I know about giving and sharing myself with others.

5. Describe what being a self-rescue princess (a strong, confident woman) means to you.

It means I have learned the hard way to be my authentic self and not the glamour-minded, artificial and selfish woman I was before. I love who I am now, love that I finally had a longed- for baby, and feel good about my job as a teacher of small children.

6. What one advice/wisdom would you like to pass onto young women?

Life is not all about me, unless I want to miss the best life has to offer. It is about loving and walking in someone else’s shoes.

7. Favorite quote or Bible verse.

It’s hard to pick one and I’m only beginning to learn them, but I do like Isaiah 43:18-19. Forget the former things, do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing. Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland. This one is special because it wipes away my past, my former bad girl behavior.

8. Will you be continuing your journey in written form?

My journey is complete, at this point, but I have a sense some of the younger characters in my story may come off the pages and create lives wanting to be read. We shall see.

If you’d like to read about the heroine’s journey or learn about the author, Jude Urbanski please check out the following links:

FIND ME OR MY BOOK AT:

Desert Breeze http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-305/Chanuke-Chronicles-Book-Two-cln-/Detail.bok

Amazon http://www.amazon.com/Chronicles-Chanute-Crossing-Book-ebook/dp/B008AE9T7S/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1344987927&sr=1-1&keywords=nurtured+in+purple+by+jude+urbanski

good reads http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13063251-the-chronicles-of-chanute-crossing-book-one

LinkedIn  http://www.linkedin.com/pub/judy-martin-urban-pen-name-jude-urbanski/1b/967/130

Face Book  www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1627189130

Twitter https://twitter.com/#!/judeurbanski

Web site www.judeurbanski.com     blog http://judeurbanski.blogspot.com