Meet Anna Sullivan from A Song of Deliverance by Donna Wichelman

Meet Anna Sullivan from A Song of Deliverance by Donna Wichelman

by | Dec 3, 2024 | Character Interview

I had the honor of meeting Anna Sullivan when I endorsed A Song of Deliverance by Donna Wichelman, and now I am blessed to introduce you to her and her story.  The author, Donna Wichelman, is graciously giving away a copy of A Song of Deliverance to the person who comments and fills out the Rafflecopter widget at the end of this post. Before we dive into Anna’s interview, let me introduce you to her story and what I had to say about it in my endorsement.

 

A Song of Deliverance by Donna Wichelman

Born into the Irish system of land-holding that favors the moneyed class, Anna Sullivan has no dowry and no chance of marrying the man she loves. Poor and heartbroken, she flees Ireland to tend to Uncle Liam’s house in Colorado and take on her deceased aunt’s sewing business.

But when Anna arrives in Georgetown, she discovers a mine disaster at the Singing Silver Mine has killed her uncle. Orphaned and destitute again, she gathers her faith, courage, and ingenuity to establish a life in the community. Only one person stands in her way—the mine’s owner.

A wealthy grief-stricken widower of European nobility, Stefan Maier threw all his energies into making his mark as a silver mining baron in Colorado. Now everyone blames him for the mine disaster that killed nine men. But how does he convince the lovely and opinionated Irish woman of his innocence?

Will Anna’s heart soften towards Stefan? Will Stefan prove himself worthy of Anna’s affections? Each will have to risk everything to attain what they each want most—love.

“Wichelman delivers a story set in the mining world that is rarely explored with such depth of research. Readers will appreciate Wichelman’s attention to detail and story where the hurts of the past meet the tragedy of the present with a heart for community and hope for a better future. Definitely check out this beautiful reflection of God’s love and provision during unexpected and difficult times as soon as possible.” ~ Crystal Caudill, Author of Counterfeit Love

Purchase Links: Amazon

Now for our interview with Anna.

CC: I’m so excited to get to introduce you to my readers, Anna. Would you mind telling them a little bit about yourself?

AS: Good day to you. My name is Anna Katherine O’Sullivan from Ireland. I’m the main character of the story you’re about to hear–a story about finding the faith and courage to persevere despite the most tragic circumstances and discovering God has never been farther from you than a tiny breath away.

CC: So true. So what or who is your biggest problem in life? 

AS: I was born at a time in the nineteenth century when the Irish system of land-holding favored the moneyed class. I had no dowry, no chance of marrying the man I loved. Though he tried to stop me from emigrating to America, his well-to-do parents would never approve of a marriage between us. “They’ll put you out to pasture with the sheep until you get some sense about you,” I told him. Poor and heartbroken, I fled Ireland to tend to Uncle Liam’s house in Georgetown, Colorado and take on my deceased aunt’s sewing business.

CC: It’s so hard when circumstances out of our control force us from the ones we love.

How would you describe your relationship with God?

AS: My journey with God soon became rough once I arrived in Colorado. Faithfully, I attended the church in Ireland and believed God had provided a path forward to earn a living–do better than “butter and egg money,” as Ma hoped for me before she died of cancer. But on the day I arrived in Georgetown, tragedy awaited me. My uncle had died in a mining disaster at the Singing Silver Mine, where he worked. One of the local pastors’ wives, Laurel Thomas, befriended me and tried to comfort me. But I questioned how God could have brought me to Colorado only to leave me once more orphaned and alone in the world without a way of earning a living. It was a poor plan from where I stood on the matter.

CC: It’s sos hard to understand God’s plans, especially when they make no sense to us and feel so painful.

How do you think others view you? Do you feel this is an accurate representation of you?

AS: As you can see, I can have a bit of an attitude–opinionated, some call me–making up my mind before I know all the facts. Ach, it is that Irish temper that sometimes arises to the surface that causes me trouble.

CC: Ha ha! I’m not even Irish and my temper can get me in trouble!

Tell us a bit about the personal journey you through during this story. 

AS: I’d never considered myself without gumption in Ireland. A person in poverty must always corral the resources to get by. Now, I had to dig deep down into my heart and soul and find the faith and courage to create a new life for myself in a strange, new world despite what appeared to be God’s mistake. Over and again, I encountered circumstances that required the mettle to persevere.

CC: And that is such a wearying experience, isn’t it?

What is your greatest skill that helps you through the story?

AS: Finding my initiative once more, I took up my aunt’s sewing business she had left behind for me, and I built upon the reputation she had made. This enterprise, as well as others, served me well as I established a life in the community.

CC: What a blessing to have such great skill with a needle. I can barely hem!

How would you describe the love interest?

AS: Sometimes our preconceptions prevent us from seeing clearly what God’s plan is. I have to admit my first impressions of the handsome Mr. Stefan Maier did not impress me. For one thing, he owned the Singing Silver Mine, and people held him responsible for the mine disaster. Then, when I discovered he hailed from European nobility, I wrote him off as above my class and out of my reach as Seamus had been back in Ireland. Even when Stefan insisted our class differences didn’t matter, it took me some time to cast off old prejudices without lingering regret. But when he sacrificed his life to prove to me and all of Georgetown who caused the disaster that killed nine men, I saw him for the man he truly was, and the veil across my eyes fell.

CC: What a beautiful story of growing to see someone for who they are and not just what we think. 

If there is one thing you could tell the reader, what would it be?

AS: I thank the good Lord for Laurel Thomas, who reminded me that we might plan and scheme and think that we have our lives under control, but it will always be the purposes of the Lord that will be established. He promises to make our paths straight if we boldly move forward, trusting His plan over our own.

CC: Having those truth speakers in our lives is so important.

Thanks for hanging with us today.  Readers, if you’re looking for a a good read over the Christmas break that isn’t Christmas, I definitely suggest picking up this one. If not now, then in the New Year. 

About Donna Wichelman:

Weaving history and faith into stories of intrigue and redemption grew out of Donna’s love of travel, history, and literature as a young adult while attending the United World College of the Atlantic—an international college in Wales, U.K. She enjoys developing plots that show how God’s love abounds even in the profoundly difficult circumstances of our lives. Her stories reflect the hunger in all of us for love, forgiveness, and belonging in a world that often withholds second chances.

Donna received her master’s degree in mass communication/journalism from San Jose State University and became a communications professional before writing full-time. Her short stories and articles have appeared in inspirational publications. She has two indie-published Christian romantic suspense novels in her Waldensian Series—Light Out of Darkness and Undaunted Valor. Her historical romance, A Song of Deliverance, releases on December 3, 2024.

Donna and her husband of forty years participate in ministry at their local church in Colorado. They love spending time with their grandchildren and bike, kayak, and travel whenever possible.

Connect with Donna: Website  |  X  |  Facebook  |  Instagram  |  GoodReads  |  BookBub

Readers: What books do you know that also feature enemy to lovers books?

Giveaway:

Donna has graciously decided to give away one copy of A Song of Deliverance. Be sure to comment on the questions above and then hop over to the Rafflecopter to be entered.  Giveaway open from time of posting until 11:59 p.m. EST on 12/10/2024.

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Meet Eleanore Wainright

Meet Eleanore Wainright

by | Oct 15, 2024 | Character Interview

One of my favorite perks of being an author is the ability to read books for endorsement. I was blessed to meet Eleanore Wainright through the opportunity to endorse A Christmas at Hotel del Coronado by Kathleen Denly. In fact, here is my endorsement for Eleanore’s story: 

“With unexpected twists, a second chance romance, a mystery, and a beautiful historic California beach setting, Denly weaves a Christmas tale that will entertain and delight. It’s the perfect quick read for any season, and especially for those who love a touch of Christmas all year long.”

Kathleen Denly is graciously offering an e-copy of her book, Harmony on the Horizon, the first book in her Chaparral Hearts series (all set in the early days of California). You can find the details for that giveaway at the bottom of this interview. Before I get to introduce you to Eleanore Wainright, let me introduce you to her story.

A Christmas at Hotel del Coronado by Kathleen Denly

When death visits Coronado, will secrets of the past keep them from uncovering the truth?

Her entire life, Eleanore Wainright has been molded to fit the ideal society wife in the glittering world of New York’s elite. Her father’s aspirations for her are clear: marry a man of wealth and status, and secure their family’s future. But when she arrives at the Hotel del Coronado with intentions to do just that, Eleanore’s carefully laid plans are thrown into disarray when she comes face to face with Thomas Harding, the man who shattered her heart and disappeared without a trace.

Working as a bellboy at California’s newest and most prestigious resort, Thomas never imagined crossing paths with Eleanore again, let alone amidst the backdrop of a suspicious death.

As the investigation continues and tensions rise, Eleanore and Thomas are forced to confront not only the ghosts of their past but also the secrets that threaten to destroy their future and the futures of those they hold dear. With the eyes of New York’s elite upon them, they must choose between the responsibilities they’re expected to fulfill and the love they’ve always yearned for, risking everything in the process.

Purchase Links: Amazon

Now for our interview with Eleanore.

CC: I’m so excited to get to introduce you to my readers, Eleanore. Would you mind telling them a little bit about yourself?

EW: What a pleasure to meet you! I’m Eleanore Wainright, daughter of Mr. Rupert Wainright of Wainright Steel Enterprises. It was my father’s request that brought me to the Hotel del Coronado with the goal of obtaining a proposal from Mr. James Mitchell. James’s family owns two railroad lines and were included in the recent publication of Mr. McAllister’s “Four Hundred” list – a list of New York’s most elite families. James is the sole heir to his family’s fortune and my marrying into a Four-Hundred family would open many doors of opportunity for Father. James seems pleasant enough, but I worry what he’ll think if he discovers the mystery novels I’ve been publishing under a pseudonym. Would he order me to quit writing? And then there’s Thomas Harding, the childhood playmate who stole my heart before breaking. I thought I’d never see him again. What is he doing working as a bellboy at this hotel? Whatever his reason, I’ve done my best to avoid him. Unfortunately, I do need his help finding the truth behind this tragic death. The Coroner’s investigation is definitely going in the wrong direction. I just hope we can figure things out before my father discovers we’ve been spending time together.

CC: What or who is your biggest problem in life?

EW: I thought I had my future figured out. I would marry James Mitchell, continue writing my mystery novels in secret, and share a life with James and Father among New York’s most elite families. Then Thomas reappeared and suddenly things are far more complicated and confusing. How can I still feel attracted to a man who promised me the world and then left without saying goodbye?

CC: Oh that is so hard. And given I know the details of this story . . . I can say that figuring out where the future leads in one crazy ride.

How would you describe your relationship with God?

EW: I believe in the Lord, but understanding His will for my life can sometimes seem as clear as a cup of hot chocolate. It sure would be nice if He could send me a letter in plain writing letting me know which path I should follow. It seems no matter which future I choose someone is going to wind up hurt.

CC: Boy do I feel that one! As much as I love hot chocolate, I’d prefer my plans to be as clear as a road map with step-by-step directions.

What is your greatest skill that helps you through the story or makes you appealing to a possible love interest?

EW: My intense curiosity makes me keenly observant. This not only feeds my mystery novels, but can come in rather handy when determining whom to trust and even in helping a loved one find their lost item.

CC: Curiosity and keen observation are wonderful traits that you demonstrate beautifully in this story.

If you were to describe yourself as an animal, which animal would it be and why?

EW: My compulsive curiosity would probably make me a cat, but I think I’d prefer to be a fly that could visit room after room unnoticed but observing everything. Although, no, maybe not a fly. They’re ugly, noisy, and are frequently squashed. Perhaps a butterfly would be better. They’re small enough to slip through small cracks, can still fly, don’t make a sound, and aren’t likely to be squashed. Yes. I do think I would enjoy being a butterfly.

CC: Smart choice to be a butterfly instead of a fly. I wouldn’t have thought about it in that way. Before we wrap up, I have one more question for you.

If there is only one thing you could tell the reader, what would it be?

EW: Never accept something at face value. Rarely are things entirely or only as they seem and people often misrepresent themselves or situations (intentionally or unintentionally) based on how they view the world. Questions are the key to truly understanding the world we live in and the people who share it with us. Always ask more questions. Find the truth.

CC: It’s so wise to realize the way people seem or portray themselves (whether intentionally or unintentionally) is influenced by how they view the world. Until we understand how they view the world, it can be difficult for us to truly understand them. 

Readers, thanks for hanging out with Eleanore and me today. If you’d like your chance for a free e-copy of Harmony on the Horizon, check out the information below. And tell us in the comments, has there ever been a time when you’d misjudged a person until you go to know them better?

About Kathleen Denly:

Kathleen Denly writes stories to entertain, encourage, and inspire readers toward a better understanding of our amazing God and how He sees us. Award winning author of the Chaparral Hearts series, she also shares history tidbits, thoughts on writing, books reviews and more at KathleenDenly.com. 

Kathleen lives in California with her loving husband, four young children, two dogs, and ten cats. As a member of the adoption and foster community, children in need are a cause dear to her heart and she finds they make frequent appearances in her stories. When she isn’t writing, researching, or caring for children, Kathleen spends her time reading, visiting historical sites, hiking, and crafting.

Connect with Kathleen: Website  |  Kathleen’s Reader Club  |  Facebook  |  FB Reader Group  |  Instagram  |  GoodReads  |  BookBub  |  Amazon

Giveaway Information

Kathleen has graciously offered an e-copy of Harmony on the Horizon for one lucky winner. Use the Rafflecopter below to enter. Drawing runs until 11:59 p.m. EST on 10/22/2024.

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Meet Miss Philippa Cashel

Meet Miss Philippa Cashel

by | Oct 8, 2024 | Character Interview

I absolutely adore all of Erica Vetch’s characters, and Miss Philippa Cashel is no different. I am almost halfway through her story, but due to life, deadlines, and having to start a massive project over, Miss Phillipa and Bertie glare at me from the shelf. They do not like where I left them, and I can’t say I do either. Even as I’m forced to wait to find out what happens, I am NOT forced to wait to talk to her for this interview. I’m counting it as one of the benefits of getting to count my blog as part of my job. So before spending time with Miss Phillipa, let me introduce you to her story. 

A Thieving at Carlton House by Erica Vetsch

The Home Office has asked Sir Bertrand Thorndike to head an investigation into stolen royal jewels. It’s the perfect chance for Bertie to step out of his brother’s long shadow. His superior, The Duke of Haverly, has a plan that makes him balk: in order to sell his cover, Bertie must play the part of a man looking for love, ready to reform his rakish ways. The duke is willing to let Bertie name his own investigative team, but his recommendation that the team include Philippa Cashel has Bertie on his guard. Does the duke-known for his behind-the-scenes machinations-have an ulterior motive?

Philippa Cashel escaped her life as one of society’s best-known courtesans, devoting her life to helping other women in dire straits. So when Sir Bertrand Thorndike approaches her about joining his team as an agent of the Crown, she is skeptical. She’s focused on getting her school for underprivileged women up and running, not in cloak-and-dagger skullduggery. Her hope is that if she labors hard enough at her charity work, she might begin to feel worthy of God’s forgiveness. When one of Philippa’s rescued girls is arrested for stealing the royal jewels and another is murdered, Philippa will risk partnering with Bertie to find the loot and stop the killer. Two brilliant minds-with two wary hearts-and one cunning deceiver are on a collision course in Regency England.

Purchase Links: Amazon  |  Baker Book House  |  Christianbook

Now for our interview with Miss Philippa.

CC: I’m so excited to get to introduce you to my readers, Miss Philippa. Would you mind telling them a little bit about yourself?

PC: I find it so difficult to introduce myself, as I do not wish to hold on to the past, but my past has shaped so much of my present. Though I hope my present is what is shaping my future and I can put the early years of my life behind me. You see, I am the illegitimate child of an earl and his long-time mistress. At least she was his mistress until he decided one day that she was not. This action forced us onto the streets of London, and I supported us the only way I knew how…and consequently became one of the most sought-after courtesans in the city. But the love of my half-sister and her husband showed me that I could leave that life and forge a new one, rescuing women who used to be as I was. A Thieving at Carlton House shows me embarking on the biggest part of my new way of life…forming a charity for women in dire straits. Though I’m about to find myself in some dire straits of my own!

CC: Why, yes. Yes, you are. But some of the worst dire straits bring about some of the most amazing futures, and I’m eagerly trying to meet my word count goals so that I get to see what that is.

What or who is your biggest problem in life? 

PC: From the outside, people would say my biggest problem in life is trying to overcome my past as a ‘fallen woman’ but I know that my greatest problem is the unforgiveness I’m toting around concerning my father’s abandonment, and how that’s eating at my soul.

CC: Unforgiveness is so difficult to overcome. How often do we think that it doesn’t hurt anyone by the person you deny it to when really it is us who suffer the most? I feel for you as you walk this road.

Since you have such a difficult past, I’m sure tha thas affected your relationship with God. How would you describe your relationship with Him?

PC: When I was on the streets, my relationship with God was best described as adversarial. Now I would describe myself as a fledgling in my faith, a bit tentative, and always wondering if I’m worthy of His love. I’ve a long way to go, it seems.

CC: It is definitely a life-long journey.

How do you think others view you? Do you feel this is an accurate representation of you? Does it bother you or make you feel good about yourself?

PC: Most men tend to see me as an object, a pretty thing to parade around. Though not my brother-in-law or strangely, Sir Bertrand Thorndike, with whom I work in a secret capacity for our Majesty’s Government. My father views me as something he’d rather forget…and has done an admirable job in that endeavor. The new pupils at the Eleos School for Women in Need, hopefully see me as a friend and mentor.

CC: I know those girls would be in a completely different place without you, and I am certain they look up to you as a friend and mentor. I know I would.

Tell us a little bit of the personal journey you go on throughout this story. What areas of growth do you find yourself facing?

PC: Though I have some very real danger, it is the road to forgiveness that I find the most arduous to traverse.

CC: Amen and hugs. 

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? 

PC: I would change my circumstances more than myself. I would have been a much-cherished daughter of a happily married couple, secure in their love and never forced out onto the streets. At times, I have despised my face and form, as they are appealing to many men, but I was also grateful for it, as it allowed me to live a certain way, with beautiful things and plenty to eat at that time of my life.

CC: I think there are aspects of all of our past circumstances that we wish we could have changed, but the older I get the more I realize those difficult circumstances were needed to make me who I am today. There would be many a girl’s life who would be still on the street if you hadn’t walked through what you did, rose above it by God’s grace, and then turned it into a ministry. 

What is your greatest skill that helps you through the story or makes you appealing to a possible love interest?

PC: I’m resilient. And I can read people. I can sense when someone is lying or hiding something. And I am a very good listener.

CC: I happen to know for a fact that these skills are very helpful for you in this story . . . and attractive to a certain man.

If you were to describe yourself as an animal, which animal would it be and why? 

PC: A cat. Wary, a bit aloof, and only comfortable in a situation where I feel safe.

CC: I can see that!

How would you describe the love interest of the story? 

PC: I am in no danger of falling in love. My past makes romantic love impossible. I must concentrate on healing from my trauma and focus on pouring my affection into the girls I rescue…though if I was to fall in love, it would have to be someone I respected, and who had a generous nature, who saw me as a person of worth, not an object to own and display.

CC: I think God is in the business of surprising us with the secret desires of our heart. I’m certainly looking forward to reading the rest of this book . . . and the rest of the series. I am sure there will be much that will surprise you and us (the readers).

If there is one thing you could tell the reader, what would it be? 

PC: Harboring unforgiveness against someone is like drinking poison and hoping the other person gets ill. You only damage yourself by not forgiving…forgiving doesn’t release the other person of responsibility. Forgiving keeps that person’s actions from ruining your life.

CC: Definitely a life lesson for us all . . . and a hard one to learn.

Readers, you probably can already anticipate what I have to say: GO GET PHILIPPA’S STORY, A Theiving at Carlton House by Erica Vetsch. We MUST know what happens to Philippa and how God chooses to work in her life. 

Let me know in the comments: Have you read The Gentleman Spy (where we first met her) or A Theiving of Carlton House? What do you think of Philippa?

About Erica Vetsch:

Best-selling, award-winning author Erica Vetsch loves Jesus, history, romance, and sports. When she’s not writing fiction, she’s planning her next trip to a history museum. You can connect with her at her website, www.ericavetsch.com and you can find her on Facebook at The Inspirational Regency Readers Group where she spends way too much time!

Connect with Erica: Website/Newsletter  |  Facebook  |  Instagram  |  BookBub

 

 

Meet Eyes-Like-Sky from Texas Forsaken by Sherry Shindelar

Meet Eyes-Like-Sky from Texas Forsaken by Sherry Shindelar

by | Aug 6, 2024 | Character Interview

It’s always a pleasure to meet new characters, especially when they come from new-to-me authors. After having conducted this interview and reading the story blurb, I’m definitely interested in picking up this story that is sure to have my heart entangled. And guess what! You can have a chance to win an e-copy of Texas Forsaken by answering the question at the bottom of this blog post. One lucky commenter will be chosen next week. First, let me introduce you to Texas Forsaken by Sherry Shindelar.

Texas Forsaken by Sherry Shindelar

The man who destroyed her life may be the only one who can save it.

Seven years ago, Maggie Logan (Eyes-Like-Sky) lost everything she knew when a raid on a wagon train tore her from her family. As the memories of her past faded to nothing more than vague shadows, Maggie adapted—marrying a Comanche warrior, having a baby, and rebuilding her life. But in one terrible battle, the U.S. Cavalry destroys that life, and she is taken captive again, this time by those who call themselves her people. Forced into a world she wants nothing to do with, Eyes-Like-Sky’s only hope of protecting her child may be an engagement to the man who killed her husband.

Enrolled in West Point to escape his overbearing father, Captain Garret Ramsey has graduated and finds himself assigned to the Texas frontier, witnessing the brutal Indian War in which both sides commit atrocities. Plagued by guilt for his own role, Garret seeks redemption by taking responsibility for the woman he widowed and her baby. Though he is determined to do whatever it takes to protect them, is he willing to risk everything for a woman whose heart is buried in a grave? Or is there hope she might heal to love once more?

Purchase Links: Amazon  |  Barnes & Noble

Now for our interview with Eyes-Like-Sky.

CC: I’m so excited to get to introduce you to my readers, Eyes-Like-Sky. Would you mind telling them a little bit about yourself?

ELS: I’m the heroine and a woman caught between cultures. I became Comanche when a raid on my family’s wagon train seven years ago tore me from my family. I adapted. I fell in love with a warrior and married. We had a child. Then, the Texas Rangers and U.S. Cavalry attacked our village and stole me away from my new life. They killed my husband. I’m heartbroken, but I still have my precious baby daughter. I’m a fighter, and I’m willing to sacrifice whatever I have to in order to protect her and get back to my people, the Comanche. I’m stubborn and a force to be reckoned with. (By the way, I like my picture on the cover, but my hair’s really a little bit darker. The artist did a great job of showing my favorite place, Palo Duro Canyon, and in case you’re wondering, I’m every bit as stubborn and determined as my expression on the cover.)

CC: It sounds like you’re a Momma Bear, a much-needed characteristic in the hard world you live in. Your daughter is very luck to have you.

Since you now consider yourself Comanche, how would you describe your relationship with God?

ELS: I used to pray. When I was a little girl, I gave my heart to Jesus. But now I don’t know. The God of my childhood is as distant as the stars. Does He hear me? Does He even care? After me and my baby girl are captured by the cavalry, and I’m trying to escape, I pray. I cry out to the Lord. 

CC: I imagine you have a lot to wrestle with, considering all that has happened to you over the last seven years. It can’t be easy to figure out how you feel about God.

How do you think others view you?

ELS: The Texas Rangers and U.S. Cavalry think they rescued me. They didn’t. They kidnapped me and took me from the only home I remember and from my beloved husband. And now I’m here in the miserable, scrapping camp that doesn’t even deserve to be called a fort. The people here see me as some savage. They’re trying to force me to be like them. They even burned my Comanche clothes. Well, they can take their grubby hands off my life. 

CC: Ouch. I wonder how often we are guilty of thinking we’re rescuing someone when in fact they don’t want to be “rescued.” I imagine it must be very difficult for you–and maybe even a bit for them. The unusual and those who don’t fit inside our boxes tend to make us uncomfortable. I pray someone in the book shows you the love and kindness of Christ, accepting you for who you are and not what they think you should be. 

What are you most afraid of?

ELS: Three things: 1) That they’ll succeed in taking Little Star from me. But I’m reassured by the fact that I know I’ll do everything in my power to stop them. I’d give my life before I’d let this happen. 2) What if I find my way back to the Comanche, and I no longer belong there? If I can find my own tribe, they’d take me back, but that might come at the cost of marrying one of my husband’s brothers. If that’s what it takes, I’ll do it. But what if I don’t find my village? My tribe moves around a lot over hundreds of miles, and after the cavalry raid, they’ve probably moved further than ever. 3) What if I develop feelings for Captain Garrett Ramsey? He’s the only one who has shown me any kindness since I came to the fort. He’s like an anchor in a storm. But my heart is buried in a grave, and it’s going to stay there. There is no room for warmth or affection. I’ll do what I have to in order to keep Little Star, but my heart is my own, and Garret Ramsey and any other man still breathing air had better leave it alone.

CC: That is a lot of things to fear–but I’d say they are all valid. Very few mothers wants to give up their children. To be forced into your position is definitely not one to be envied.

You say that your heart is your own and men better leave it alone, but what is your heart’s true desire? What do you really want?

ELS: One of my heart’s deepest desires has been ripped from me. But I still have one left: my baby daughter, Little Star. She is the light of my life. Her bright eyes and bubbly chatter are my joy. I will do anything and sacrifice everything to protect her and keep her with me. My uncle is plotting to take her away from me. He can’t stand the thought that her father was Comanche. I will fight, run away, and do whatever I have to in order to protect her. But when Captain Garret Ramsey offers me another option, I’m stunned. Can I trust the man? After all, he’s the one who destroyed my life. But when I look into his eyes, and see the determination on his face, and recall his kindnesses, I realize he might be my only hope.

CC: I can see why you are so determined to protect and keep her, but what a terrifying prospect–to trust the man who ruined your life or give up the daughter you love.

If there is one thing you could tell the reader, what would it be?

ELS: That God isn’t as distant as the stars. He is as near as our hearts. Another message would be: Don’t give up. There is hope, and there is healing even when one has endured the worst of circumstances. We don’t have to be lost in our grief, guilt, and/or failures. God is the God of second chances. It took me way too long to learn this. But I thank God that He didn’t give up on me.

CC: Amen. I look forward to walking through this journey with you in Texas Forsaken. 

Readers, I hope you will join Eyes-Like-Sky in her journey to keep her daughter and find her place in a world where she doesn’t fit into their perfect little box.

GIVEAWAY

For your chance to win an e-copy of Texas Forsaken, answer the following question in the comments: What intrigues you about this story?

One person who comments on or before 8/13 will be randomly selected and emailed–so when filling out the commenter section, be sure to include your email. I can see it without anyone else being able to see it. 😉 I will update the top of the post with the first name of the winner once they have been chosen.

About Sherry Shindelar:

Originally from Tennessee, Sherry loves to take her readers into the past. A romantic at heart, she is an avid student of the Civil War and the Old West. When she isn’t busy writing, she is an English professor working to pass on her love of writing to her students. Sherry is an award-winning writer: 2023 Genesis finalist, 2021 & 2023 Maggie finalist, and 2022 Crown finalist. She currently resides in Minnesota with her husband of thirty-nine years. She has three grown children and three grandchildren. Her novel Texas Forsaken was published in May 2024.

Connect with Sherry: Website  |  Newsletter  |  Amazon  |  BookBub  |  GoodReads

 

 

Meet Bailey Donovan from Pointe, Shoots, and Scores

Meet Bailey Donovan from Pointe, Shoots, and Scores

by | Jul 23, 2024 | Character Interview

It’s been a while since we’ve had a character interview, and I’m excited to dive in and get to know Bailey Donovan. Bailey is from Carolyn Miller’s latest book, Pointe, Shoots, and Scores. But before we meet this ballet heroine, let me introduce you to the story.

Pointe, Shoots, and Scores by Carolyn Miller

Opposites can attract, but can they dance?

For as long as she can remember Bailey Donovan has loved dance, especially ballet. When her dance studio faces the risk of closure, she takes a God-given miracle of a gig training a complete non-dancer for a TV show. Only problem is, he’s a real grump to her sunshine, and for an athlete, seems to be lacking all the moves. Or does he?

Luc Blanchard has sworn off wine, women, and definitely dancing as it sure doesn’t fit his macho image. He loves hockey, God, and his family, with no time for more, until an unexpected promotion sees him forced to swallow his pride for the sake of his team.

Sparks soon fly as these two opposites spend time together, and TV ratings push for their onscreen partnership to make a fake relationship real. But as they discover a certain magic under the spotlight, will issues from the past ever let them truly soar?

Pointe, Shoots, and Scores is the third book in the Northwest Ice Christian hockey romance series, can be read as a standalone, and is perfect for fans of banter-laden romance with hope, heart and humor.

Purchase Links: Amazon  |  More Options

Now for our interview with Bailey.

CC: I’m so excited to get to introduce you to my readers, Bailey. Would you mind telling them a little bit about yourself?

BD: Hi! My name is Bailey Donovan. I’m a dance teacher who has danced professionally in Europe and in North America. I like to think I’m encouraging, supportive, and I care for those who have had tough breaks, because I certainly understand what that’s like. I love teaching dance but a girl still has to pay the bills, so that means I work in a cafe and need some other ways to pay off my bank loans. So when this amazing opportunity comes my way, to dance on national TV on Dance Off Canada, I can’t help but think it’s God answering my prayers…

CC: I love the way God can work in the most unexpected ways. 

What or who is your biggest problem in life? 

BD: Apart from money issues facing my dance studio, I think the biggest problem is one my family is facing. My sister is estranged from the family after a bunch of terrible events, and it’s really caused tension between us all and fractured us as a family. Not that we ever talk about it. My dad hates anything that might be construed as violent, and it’s causing problems with Luc, my dance partner, who’s been known to stand up for his teammates on the ice. So I guess we’ll see if Dad can learn to let me stand on my own two feet and trust me -and trust God – so I can live independently.

CC: As a parent, I can understand your dad’s not liking Luc’s . . . way of standing up for his teammates, and it’s so hard to let our babies grow up. It will be interesting to see how you manage to stand on your feet with all that is going on. Add a dance competition with Luc as your partner, and I know it can’t be easy.

How would you describe your relationship with God?

BD: I love God, and pretty much always have. God has been my comfort and my strength through some very bad days, and I’m trying to rest in who I am in Him. But it’s sometimes hard to take the performer out of the relationship and just trust and not feel like I’ve got to be perfect. But I know this is what God is wanting me to learn to do. Trust Him, not me.

CC: Ouch. That is a lesson that hits me hard. It’s so easy to slip into trusting ourselves, isn’t it? 

Tell us a little about the personal journey you go on throughout this story. What areas of growth do you find yourself facing?

BD: I love my family, but something I’ve noticed is that my family has always tended to tiptoe around the truth. We don’t like confrontation, so we’d rather sweep things under the carpet, which is why Luc is good for me as he’s so strong and direct and makes me speak what I actually mean, rather than what I think others want to hear. It’s hard to do though, especially after a lifetime of keeping the peace and being nice. I’m trying to be more honest. 

CC: Wow. I love that Luc is bringing that out in you and teaching you to speak truth instead of what people think you should say. That can be an uncomfortable journey to walk for sure.

What is your greatest skill that helps you through the story or makes you appealing to a possible love interest?

BD: I think I’m a pretty positive person, because I’m trusting God to work things out for my good, even when things seem pretty tough. I’ve had people tell me I’m sweet, good-natured, and perky!

CC: Those are all attractive qualities in a potential love interest. So tell us about YOUR love interest.

BD: Luc Blanchard is in many ways my opposite. He’s big, intense, and can come across as fierce, but he’s been a total marshmallow with me. He has such a good heart, and yes, he’s not perfect, but he’s perfect for me. He’s amazing how he took to dance, which was something he REALLY didn’t want to do, but he’s doing it for the sake of his mom (who had breast cancer, so he’s raising money for cancer research) and he just committed to the routines and has tried so, so hard. He’s a godly Christian guy, and a real sweetheart. I just love him to bits!

CC: Awww. That is such a sweet thing. 

So, can you see a future with Luc?

BD: Do I see a future with Luc? Gosh, I’d like to think so. But since some stuff went down in my family (which may have involved my sister’s ex going to jail) my parents are pretty protective of me, especially my dad. He’s not a fan of hockey players, as he thinks they’re too rough, and he’s definitely not a fan of men with tattoos, and as Luc fits into both categories I can’t see that he’d ever accept him. Especially when he sees us in some of the outfits and dances we’ve got to do. I might not think of myself as Daddy’s little girl but he still does, so we’d need a miracle for Luc to ever be accepted into the family. But I’m someone who believes God can do anything!

CC: Ha ha! My husband had to work to earn the approval of my family so I totally get it! I thought it would take a miracle too!

Last question: If there is one thing you could tell the reader, what would it be?

BD: We often are too quick to say ‘I can’t’ when really God is wanting us to remember that ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me’. So whether it be stepping out in dance, learning to let go, or having those hard conversations, we can do it; we just need to try. And if we’re Christians, we need to remember that God is with us wherever we go and is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all we can ask or imagine. But that means saying yes and having a go, rather than sitting back or sitting on the sidelines. We get one life, people, so make the most of it and live it!

CC: So true and such an important thing to remember. And boy is it uncomfortable stepping out of our comfort zones.

Readers, if you haven’t had the chance to read Pointe, Shoots, and Scores by Carolyn Miller, now is your chance to pick up a copy.  

About Carolyn Miller:

Carolyn Miller lives in the beautiful Southern Highlands of New South Wales, Australia, with her husband and four children. A longtime lover of romance, especially that of Jane Austen, Georgette Heyer and LM Montgomery, Carolyn loves drawing readers into fictional worlds that show the truth of God’s grace in our lives. Her contemporary romance series includes the Original Six hockey romance series, Muskoka Romance series, and the Independence Islands series, and her historical series include the Regency Brides and Regency Wallflowers series.

Connect with here here: Website  |  Newsletter  |  Facebook  |  Instagram  |  Amazon  |  BookBub  |  GoodReads

 

 

Meet Daisy Harper from His Treasured Bride by Patti Stockdale

Meet Daisy Harper from His Treasured Bride by Patti Stockdale

by | Apr 16, 2024 | Character Interview

I had the pleasure of meeting Daisy Harper when I read His Treasured Bride for endorsement, and I am excited to introduce her to you now—first, a little bit about her story.

His Treasured Bride by Patti Stockdale with Jodi Hedlund

In twenty-four hours, marriage, mystery, and mayhem.

After recently arriving in Vancouver Island on a bride ship, aspiring seamstress Daisy Harper is determined not to rush into a hasty and quarrelsome marriage, a mistake her parents made. To avoid choosing the wrong man, she creates a rigorous list of ten requirements for a potential husband.

Mapmaker Seth Ryann moved to the colony to assist his partially blind brother, a local missionary. They’ll soon return to Ireland, but first, Seth is tasked by a friend to find a treasure of gold hidden in the mountains. Seth has the map to the treasure, but he’s missing the key.

When he discovers Daisy somehow has the key, the two agree to search for the treasure together. They’re left with little choice but to quickly enter a marriage of convenience. As they venture into the wilderness and work together to overcome danger, an undeniable attraction grows. But will they find the treasure only to lose what matters most?

Purchase Links: Amazon  |  Sunrise Publishing

Now for our interview with Daisy.

DH: I’m so excited to introduce you to my readers, Daisy. Would you mind telling them a little bit about yourself?

DH: You can call me determined, whimsical, brave, and leery when it comes to men.

CC: Ah yes, all traits needed for this adventure you’re being pulled on.

What is your biggest problem in life?

DH: It’s hard to know where to start. I tried to do a favor for a friend by returning a rumored treasure chest key to its rightful owner. Instead, I landed in the wrong place at the wrong time—hiding under a stranger’s bed one minute and running for my life the next. Suddenly, I’m tangled in a marriage of convenience, pressed to find a treasure chest, and chased by wily villains. It’s a pile of problems, all right.

CC: Most certainly it is. I’d wager that it’s the adventure of a lifetime, and what adventure doesn’t come with trouble?

How would you describe your relationship with God?

DH: I sometimes wonder if God has forgotten me. Therefore, I tend to take matters into my own hands too often. Indeed, I am impatient. Do you ever feel like your timetable and His bump against each other? Well, I certainly do. Thankfully, Mrs. Butterwick, my landlady, reminded me that trusting God in big and small matters is key. Also, she pointed out that everyone is imperfect, so why should I hope to find a perfect husband? She didn’t say, “Daisy, you’re being a hypocrite,” but she could have.

CC: Oh boy, do I ever struggle with my timetable bumping up against God’s. I, like you, am impatient.

Tell us a little bit of the personal journey you go on throughout the story. What areas of growth do you find yourself facing?

DH: When I was a girl, my papa left home after a big fight with Mum. He never returned. I created a list of ten desirable traits in a future husband to ensure I avoided a quarrelsome man. Then I met Seth, and we entered a marriage of convenience lickety-split. I held onto the fact the arrangement was only temporary, driven by the need to get me safely out of town. But being together all day, every day, my husband-requirement list started to become a little less important. Seth was imperfectly perfect in every way, and why would I want him to change?

CC: It’s amazing how love reframes our long-held lists of requirements. 

How would you describe Seth to others?

DH: I’d never met a mapmaker before meeting Seth Ryann. He’s highly educated, highly adorable, and highly hard on himself because of his past. He never intended to leave Ireland but did to accompany his brother Theo, who is partially blind and a missionary. They’ve been on the island for three years and are ready and eager to return home in a few months.

Some people call me whimsical. Seth is the opposite, not to mention the best man I ever met. But that doesn’t mean we belong together. 

CC: He does, indeed, sound like a good man. Learning to live with another person is definitely hard, and determining if you are a good fit is no easy thing.

If there is one thing you could tell the reader, what would it be?

DH: Not every woman gets to follow their dream, especially in Manchester, England, where I’m from. I hopped on the brideship in search of a better life. Eventually, my mum and I hope to open a sewing shop on the island. But first, I must pay back the Immigration Society for my ship’s passage to Vancouver Island, and then I need to save enough money for Mum’s fare. I’d been wondering how we’d fund our new business. Then a golden opportunity arose—if I help find the treasure, I’ll get a cut of the proceeds.

CC: That certainly makes a marriage of convenience an easy thing. Especially if you believe there is hope for an annulment afterward. Thanks so much for dropping by and telling us a bit more about you. 

Reader, I highly recommend reading His Treasured Bride, especially if you are in search of a fun, light read that will leave you satisfied at the end. 

About Patti Stockdale:

Patti Stockdale is a historical romance author and freelance writer who lives in Wisconsin. She creates tangled-up characters full of heart and hope. Patti married her high school sweetheart and has two kids and four grandsons. When she’s not plotting stories, she loves to travel somewhere new, plant flowers, drink tea, read fiction, and dance with her family.

Connect with Patti: Website  |  Pinterest  |  Facebook  |  Instagram  |  GoodReads  |  BookBub  |  Twitter

 

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