Meet Recorder from Cathy McCrumb’s Sci-fi series

Meet Recorder from Cathy McCrumb’s Sci-fi series

by | Oct 10, 2023 | Character Interview

Every now and again, I get into a Sci-fi kick. After all, my family devoured shows and movies like Stargate, Startrek, Star Wars, and Mystery Science Theater 3000. Today, I get to introduce you to a character from a Sci-Fi series on my TBR pile. Unfortunately, their name is a bit elusive. But I’ll let THEM explain that. Before I introduce them, allow me to introduce you to the first book in the series, The Recorder.

Recorder by Cathy McCrumb

The Consortium is All. But Recorder Can No Longer Obey.

The Recorder has no family, no friends, and no name. Donated to the Consortium before birth, her sole purpose is to maintain and verify the records. A neural implant and drone ensure compliance, punishing displays of bias.

Suddenly cut off from controlling technology, the Recorder tastes what it means to be human. But if the Consortium discovers her feelings, everyone she knows will be in danger.

With no name, no resources, and only an infinitesimal possibility of escape, the Recorder’s time is running out.

Series Purchase Links: Amazon *The Recorder and Aberraion are on sale now.

Now for our interview with The Recoder.

CC: Yours is a unique story. Would you mind to introduce yourself so that I don’t steal your thunder?

TR: I do not have a name. No member of the Consortium has one, for to have a name would be a violation of the AAVA codes. All my life, my priority has been to maintain an unbiased attitude so I may best serve the system’s citizens. This is my record, an account of what happened on my disastrous first assignment. I have already acted in violation of my training. Glimpses of a freedom I will never have call to a part of me I did not know–

No. This is not entirely true. I did know, but I dared not acknowledge it.

Perhaps a name would be beneficial, after all.

CC: Names are definitely beneficial. So for the sake of this interview, we’ll just call you TR–The Recorder. 

So, TR, how do you think others view you?

TR: Citizens are uncomfortable with Recorders. I have learned that they trust neither our drones nor our constant documentation, even though all our efforts are done on their behalf. They do not see us as individuals, and there are times I doubt they perceive us as human.

We are, though. We are as human as they, though if we dare dream, we must bury that dream deep within, lest it prove our undoing.

CC: That is extremely ominous and very disconcerting. Do you have a dream that you keep close to your chest?

TR: A friend. Since I was young, this has been my deepest, most secret dream, but to strive for it would condemn me and whomever I befriended.

CC: What a horrible, lonely life. I imagine you deal with many unpleasant people. Who is your least favorite person to contend with?

TR: I do not like Captain North, whose rude and confrontational behavior extends past members of the Consortium to citizens. His discourtesy has been documented. Although I kept any personal bias out of my recording, I will confess that obtaining proof of his prejudicial statements, which will be submitted to the authorities, gave me a degree of personal satisfaction.

CC: Oh the joy we get in seeing justice served. Do you have a favorite person?

TR: Though it is a great betrayal of Consortium training, I find myself spending an inordinate amount of time thinking of Nathaniel Timmons. It is he who picked me up and carried me from disaster, and he remained by my side when I was ensconced in the medical tank. His kindness… it is a gift, though why his perfect eyebrows occupy my mind, I cannot say.

CC: You cannot can you? Hmmm. Interesting. Since you said there are other Recorders, do you enjoy family gatherings? Is it even a family?

TR: Like all members of the Consortium, I was gifted to serve before my birth. I have no family other than the others in my cohort, the novices, and the Elders. The Eldest is the parent over us all.

I have wondered about my mother. Why did she make the choice to gift me, and did she ever regret it? What she was like? Were her eyes brown like mine? Did she, too, long to see a sky unbound by rivets?

Even so, I will not search for her when I have the opportunity. To do so would betray her choice, and I will not be guilty of such disrespect. She made her decision, and I must live with it.

CC: Wow. That must be a hard decision to respect. With such a hard life, I wonder, if you could have anything in the world, what would it be?

TR: Freedom. To be able to love and be loved without fear of penalty or consequence, to have friends, a family, a name? Are these not the grandest of aspirations? And beyond that, to have a certain, fixed knowledge of worth and to know I am not alone.

CC: Oh, Recorder, my heart breaks for you. If there is one thing you could tell my readers, what would it be?

TR: I have thought long about this. Dr. Maxwell, the ship’s physician, told me that whether we are stardust or creation, we are unique. I can hear his deep voice rumble even now: “You are the only one of you in all of space and time.”

In all of space and time… Only one. Singular, unique, precious.

Even me. Even you.

CC: Such a powerful message. And a powerful series.

Readers, this series is truly unique, and I admit to having read ahead to the blurbs of the other books. (I’m sneaking a peek for you down below too.) Believe me, this is one series you don’t want to miss. 

 

About Cathy McCrumb:

Cathy McCrumb graduated from Biola University with a degree in English Literature and a love for stories. She and her husband, whom she met while writing letters to soldiers, have five children. They currently live in the shadow of the Rocky Mountains.

She enjoys long hikes (followed by long naps), gluten-free brownies, raspberries, and crocheting while watching science fiction, mystery, or fantasy movies with friends and family.

Most of her imaginary friends are nice people.

Connect with Cathy: Website  |  Facebook  |  Instagram

Abberation by Cathy McCrumb

Freedom Awaits, but the Consortium is Watching

When rogue drones threaten citizens and the ship’s crew falls ill, the Recorder answers their call for help, once again drawing scrutiny from the Consortium.

With no other option and under an Elder’s overbearing watch, she returns to Pallas Station where she nearly lost her life in the hope of finding something—anything—to save her friends and countless others. Her friends are determined to keep her safe, but for the Recorder, saving others comes first, no matter the cost.

 

Guardian by Cathy McCrumb

The Recorder’s fate has been sealed, but the Consortium is not the only enemy.

Labeled an aberration by the Consortium, the Recorder is not yet free. Time is running out as an engineered bioweapon wreaks havoc on friend and foe alike.

Stopping both the biological agent and the people who created it is no easy task, especially since the Recorder and her friends are trapped on a research station infested with behemoth insects. Without Consortium technology, the probability of neutralizing the threat falls to nothing. In order to save her allies, the Recorder must activate a drone, but her success might destroy any hope for freedom, a future, and a name.

Meet Hannah Wade from Fire and Ice by Carolyn Miller

Meet Hannah Wade from Fire and Ice by Carolyn Miller

by | Jun 20, 2023 | Character Interview

Welcome to another meet the character. I’ve become a fan of Carolyn Miller’s sports romances. They’re just so fun and different from my typical read, and before I go any further, I want to share two promotions she’s doing right now. Muskoka Blue, book 6 (but can be read without the others) in the Original Six Hockey Romance Series, is on sale for $0.99. AND TODAY is her new release of Love Somebody Like You, which has a special introductory price of $0.99. So hop over and check out those two reads after you get the chance to meet Hannah Wade from Fire and Ice.

Before I introduce her, here’s a bit about her book:

Fire and Ice by Carolyn Miller

Hannah Wade’s heart might’ve once been touched by a rancher’s son, but her real passion has always been sports. Years later, when her sports career is cut short by injury, she jumps at the chance to be one of Calgary’s first female sports reporters. Trouble is, some of the old dinosaurs she works with think she’s only there to look good, add ratings, and stir controversy among the fiercely loyal hockey fans. She longs to prove herself, so when an opportunity comes along to interview newly traded defenseman Franklin James, she meets him. Or, more accurately, re-meets him. With disastrous effect.

Growing up with three sisters means Franklin thought he knew something about women, but nothing had ever prepared him for the sparkling firecracker that is Hannah. And yet her vibrant personality holds a sweetness and soft side, something that draws his interest and protectiveness when an interview goes south. And there’s something about her that’s vaguely familiar…

Can these two overcome prejudice and find a way forward? And what has faith – or the lack of – got to do with anything?

Fire and Ice is a second-chance, forbidden romance and the first book in the new Northwest Ice hockey romance series, a sweet and swoony, slightly sporty, Christian contemporary romance series, perfect for fans of Becky Wade, Courtney Walsh, and Susan May Warren.

Purchase Links: Amazon  |  Books2Read

Now for our interview with Hannah.

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

HW: Hi. I’m Hannah Wade, a sports reporter for one of Calgary’s TV stations. People tell me I’m strong, smart, and can be sassy, but I prefer to think of myself as assertive. Which you’d think would make me the perfect fit to interview Calgary’s newest handsome hockey recruit. Except, he’s the guy who years ago got away…

CC: Oh no!! That must make for one awkward interview. Umm. . . So you can you tell us about him? 

HW: Franklin James is – okay, I know it sounds corny – but he’s actually kind of dreamy. He’s tall, handsome, with blue eyes that seem to look straight through a person. But more than that, he’s a good guy. He’s decent, strong, got manners, he might have muscles to spare, but you can tell he’s from a loving family and that he’s been raised right. He’s a Christian, which probably has a lot to do with why he is so nice that nobody has a bad word to say about him. And as for his kisses…

CC: Oh my. Kisses??? Mmmm-hmmm. Definitely probably an awkward interview. And I imagine that wasn’t too helpful for your career. Being a sports interviewer in a male-dominated world must be hard. Who is your least favorite person to deal with?

HW: Gosh, some of the guys I work with seem to have forgotten it’s the twenty-first century. But while they may be dinosaurs, they’re not as creepy as some of Franklin James’s teammates, one of whom at least seems to think it’s okay to threaten a woman. As a female sports reporter, I’m used to guys belittling me, or reducing me to my looks (I know female sports reporters who have even had hot dogs thrown at them!), but this dude is on a whole other level of nasty.

CC: Yuck. That does not sound good. So let’s flip the questions and find out some of the good people in your life. Who is your favorite person to deal with?

HW: I have three favorite people: it may come as no surprise but one of my fave people is Franklin James (bc he’s just the archetype of a hero). Franklin’s sister Cassie (she runs her family’s ranch’s movie set!) is such a sweetheart and cheerleader of a friend. And another person I’ve come to know and love is Bree Vaughan, wife of Calgary’s hockey captain Mike Vaughan, and another all-round sweetheart and champion of women. I’d happily spend hours talking with any of them, as they all always build me up and remind me where I should be finding my hope and strength (hint: God, not me). I love them all to bits.

CC: It is so great to have those sorts of people in your life. But that doesn’t mean life can’t be hard. What are you biggest struggles? 

HW: I sometimes feel like I’m a fraud. People might see someone who can seem tough, but inside I feel a little broken sometimes, like I’m unloveable. I think my dad leaving and my mom’s focus on work only exacerbated this, and I’m not sure God loves me either. I’d love to feel like I can be strong and loved and maybe one day have a family like Franklin’s awesome parents and sisters, but it’s scary to think that means I need to become vulnerable. Or maybe I just scare guys off. It happened in the past.

CC: Hugs. I think we all feel like frauds and vulnerable at times. It’s a hard place to be, but I’m sure with the help of those favorite people throughout your story, we may get to see you become more confident in God’s love for you and who you are in Him. It sounds like your family life has been a rough one. So do you enjoy family gatherings?

HW: Ever since my dad left, it’s only been my mom and me, and now it seems like she barely notices me, as she’s so busy focusing on her university career. So while Mom and I try to get together, it’s more out of obligation than anything else. Don’t get me wrong: I love her. Just don’t always feel the love from her, if you know what I mean.

CC: My heart just breaks for you, Hannah. I look forward to reading your story and seeing how love finds its way into your life. For our last question, if there is one thing you could tell my readers, what would it be?

HW: I used to think that independence was the way to go, that I couldn’t rely on anyone else but myself because people always let me down. That meant I started being the first to cut ties so I didn’t get hurt and could feel like I was in control. And it worked – until my body let me down. Now I know that I need people, I need relationships, and I can’t do things on my own. And not just people. I need God. I long thought I had to have things together so people would be impressed enough to love me. Now I know that God loves me anyway – despite all my flaws and failures. So I guess if there’s anything I want people to know it’s that God loves you, just like He loves me. And when we start trusting Him with our lives He has a way of working things out for our good. I’ve seen it in my life, and I’ve seen it happen in other people’s lives too.

Such a powerful message. Thank you so much for joining us today, Hannah! Readers, I hope you’ll pop over to Amazon and pick up Fire and Ice to read Hannah’s full story.

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 Carolyn: Website  |  Newsletter  |  Facebook  |  Instagram  |  Amazon  |  BookBub  |  GoodReads

 

Readers, Fire and Ice has to do with a female reporter and hockey. What other books have you read with either one? Do sports books interest you? (I know I was pleasantly surprised.)

 

Meet Nessa from Rise of Betrayal by M.N. Stroh

Meet Nessa from Rise of Betrayal by M.N. Stroh

by | Jun 13, 2023 | Character Interview

I’ve had the pleasure of knowing M.N. Stroh for a few years now. While we’ve yet to have the pleasure of meeting in person, I can tell you she is a wonderful person with a fascinating interest in writing edgy Christian historical fiction set in Medieval Ireland. In fact, I get the privilege of introducing you to one of her characters, Nessa ingen Aengus. Before I do, let me introduce you to the series and then her book.

Put on a pot of Irish breakfast tea, grab an Irish lace cookie, and be swept away by the saga of Viking-era Ireland, a forgotten age where cattle lords vie with foreign jarls for dominion, bards spin tales, brehons establish law, monks inscribe annals, and maidens alter the course of kings. 

Rise of Betrayal is book two in the series, and here is the blurb: 

Rise of Betrayal by M.N Stroh

Ireland, 962 AD

Nessa’s father arranges her betrothal to the son of their warmongering overlord. Horrified, Nessa realizes that marrying the rogue warrior will thrust her family into the heart of their clan’s longstanding conflict with the Danes of Luimnech.

Nessa accepts her seemingly sealed fate until tragedy presses her to make a desperate escape, though her brash act costs her intended’s life. Now his family seeks revenge.

Sanctuary among distant kindred proves short-lived and Nessa’s rescuers entangle her into their schemes. With the balance of power shifting in southern Ireland, her knowledge could pave the way for her former chieftain to claim the provincial throne. Yet, offering that knowledge may expose her identity to her estranged clansmen… and to the man whose brother died because of her.

Purchase Links:  Amazon  |  Barnes & Noble

Check out the whole series at  Amazon  |  Barnes & Noble

Now for our interview with Nessa.

CC: Would you mind telling us a little bit about yourself?

Nessa: Good day to you! I’m Nessa, daughter of Aengus mac Ruadh and Camma. We’re farmers tending the land of our overlord, Davan mac Duncan, a powerful warrior of the Dal Cais clan, and kinsman to Chief Mahon, who rules over our home in Thomond, a small but powerful túath in the province of Mumhain, nestled on the western coast of Éire.

My father and brothers labored long under Davan so that they might gain noble status and thus a voice in our clan. But one terrible winter stripped nearly all hope of that from us. I say nearly, for there’s but one wretched alternative, and it seems I’m to pay it. All our debt and renders will be forgiven and counted as dowry if my father gives me in marriage to Davan’s son, Ardan. A rogue of a man entangled with his father in secret assistance to Chief Mahon’s rebel brother, Prince Brian mac Cennedigh. Brian and his warband draw trouble to us as faithfully as a foreigner’s ax. Indeed, they draw the foreigners themselves to our lands time and again, for Brian refuses to keep the peace with them that his brother established. I fear what shall become of my family once we are doubly bound to Davan through this betrothal.

CC: That sounds like a terrible situation to be placed in! So I take it that Lord Davan is one of your least favorite people to deal with?

Nessa: Yes. Lord Davan is a stern and cold man. Da says it was not always so. That great tragedy wrought the bitterness festering in his soul. Still, I see naught but deception in him and don’t relish the thought of living under his roof.

CC: That would not be something I look forward to. So let’s talk of happier things. Who is your favorite person?

Nessa: My brother, Tiarnán, is the closest friend I possess in the whole wide world. There’s little he wouldn’t do for me. Still, he’s a might more stubborn than I and just as prone to tug my locks as Davan’s sons and call me “Red”.

CC: Those pesky nicknames are awful. We know others call you “Red”, but how do you think others view you? Do you think this is an accurate representation of you?

Nessa: I suspect most nobles would take no note of me at all. Unless I fall prey to Lord Davan’s foul sons. They’re naught but trouble, especially the younger twins, Ronan and Niall, who are near my age. Some say I’m stubborn and have a fearsome temper. Perhaps so, but only to those who deserve it. To those who show kindness, they should find me a faithful friend.

CC: I can only image how much the Davans deserve that temper, but that is probably not a wise thing. What is your biggest fear?

Nessa: I fear losing Da and my brother, Tiarnán in battle. They’re pledged to serve Lord Davan in that manner as tenants under him. My eldest brother, Callann, fought faithfully alongside Davan’s men and now he’s lost to us, though not dead. They banished him for an indiscretion against the Dal Cais. ‘Tis a fearsome thing to fall prey to the ill will of our overlords. Da may still secure a lesser noble status in our clan, but to do so by my betrothal to Ardan mac Davan, means we shall never be free of the ties that bind Da and Tiarnán to Davan’s warband.

CC: And it does not free them from having to go to battle, though, and that is indeed a scary thing. Tell us a little more about this villainous family. Who are the worst?

Nessa: Lord Davan and his eldest son, Ardan, are alike in every manner. The Devil take them! Both set my skin to crawling. Of the two, Ardan is most arrogant. He hates Tiarnán, and riles him to fearful rows just for the pleasure of it.

CC: They do sound like an intimidating pair. But surely they are not all bad. After all, it appears you may have to marry one of them. Could you tell us a little bit about your love interest in this story–if love can even be used to describe your relationship?

Nessa: All the women of our clan find Lord Davan’s sons handsome and many dream of a match made betwixt them. They’re all rogues to my eyes! Still, if one was to be named best of all, I’d point to Gideon mac Davan. He bears a kindness uncommon to his brothers, and a far leveler head about him. But he reveres his older brother, Ardan…practically worships the ground Ardan trods upon! Neither fear God nor man.

CC: Men who neither fear God nor man are bound to fall–and it seems like with them, a lot of people will suffer. Will you tell us a little bit about the personal journey you are on throughout this story? 

Nessa: Ma says, ’tis our lot in life to marry and bear up God-fearing families. From my youth, I knew ’twas a fate meant for me. But I ne’er believed I should be bound to some sullied noble’s son. How can one trust a faithless noble from a faithless family who pledged our safety for service yet failed in that duty time and again? They’ve done naught but betray our loyalty and I dread what further sacrifice they might demand.

CC: This is definitely a story that already has me anxious to read and discover what happens to you and your family, and if love is possible with such a clan. 

Readers, if you like epic historical adventure stories, influenced by Irish hero tales and Icelandic sagas, mixed with a heavy side of romance, and grounded in Christ, you need to check this series out. Man of Sorrows is the novella prequel and doesn’t need to be read before reading this book, Rise of Betrayal. However, the rest of the series does need to be read in order. BTW, you can download Man of Sorrows for free by signing up for M.N. Stroh’s newsletter and downloading a copy through Bookfunnel. 

About M.N. Stroh:

M.N. Stroh is fueled by her love for storytelling and history. She writes Christian Historical Fiction with an edge, to inspire the downtrodden and outcasts through adventure-laden escapes leading them back to their First Love, as showcased in her debut series, Tale of the Clans. M.N. serves as Director of Communications for Serious Writer Inc. affiliate, Writers Chat, director of Serious Writer Book Club, and a member of ACFW and Historical Novel Society’s Interviews Admin Team. Connect with her at mnstroh.com and social media.

Connect with M.N. Stroh: Website  |  Newsletter  |  Facebook  |  Instagram  |  Twitter |  Pinterest  |  Goodreads  |  Amazon

Readers, what medieval stories have you read? Are you familiar with the Viking history of Ireland?

 

Meet Micah Bender from Crime Scene Witness by Dana R. Lynn

Meet Micah Bender from Crime Scene Witness by Dana R. Lynn

by | May 9, 2023 | Character Interview

I’ve enjoyed several Love Inspired Suspense authors over the years (I’ve really only read a handful), but I’ve yet to read Dana’s books. That’s why I’m so excited to get to meet Micah Bender from Crime Scene Witness. Join me in finding out who he is, what the story is about, and what danger lurks in the shadows. First, about the story:

Crime Scene Witness by Dana R. Lynn

Finding a safe haven

is the only way to stay alive

When crime scene cleaner Lissa Page discovers a clue at a murder site, she’s attacked and becomes the killer’s new target. Now Deputy US Marshal Micah Bender must protect the single mother from becoming another victim. But with threats coming from every direction, Micah needs to hide Lissa—and the Amish community he left behind might be the answer to keeping his witness safe.

Purchase Links: Amazon  |  Barnes & Noble

Now for our interview with Micah.

CC: Would you mind telling us a little bit about yourself?

MB: Good morning. My name is Micah. I’m the hero of this story, though sometimes I don’t feel too hero-like, and that’s the truth. I was Amish once, a long time ago, but I’m a Deputy US Marshal now. I don’t have time for romance or any of that emotional baggage. Only, I’m protecting this woman, Lissa, and her little girl. Cutest kid I ever saw. Lissa’s getting under my skin, too. But I know it can’t go anywhere. Being a marshal is my life. Protecting people. And trying to forgive myself for past failures.

CC: That is a hard place to be when a good woman walks into your life. So is that your biggest fear–falling in love?

MB: What I dread is the thought of someone I love paying for my mistakes. Twice in my life, I’ve failed to protect someone close to me. One of them died. The other was lost for more than 20 years. I figure if I keep my focus 100 percent on my job and don’t let myself get too close, I’ll see the danger before it strikes. And no one will suffer because of my failure.

CC: Oh honey, you can’t hold onto guilt like that. But I suppose that is something you are going to have to learn on your own. Who is your favorite person to deal with during the course of Crime Scene Witness?

MB: Little Shelby is a hoot. She’s about as adorable as a kid can get. And sassy. Like her mama. Except I’m keeping my distance from her mother. But Shelby? She sent me one smile, and I couldn’t resist her. If I were ever to have a daughter, well, no. That’s never going to happen. Forget I said anything.

CC: Kids do have a knack for worming their way into our hearts. So you’ve told us a little bit about Shelby, but what we all really want to know is who is this Lissa, and how would you describe her?

MB: Alyssa Page. Everyone calls her Lissa. She’s sweet and sassy. And brave. I know she’s scared. After all, she’s witnessed her best friend’s murder scene, has lost most of her family, and has sacrificed so much to be a good mother. On top of that, someone is out to kill her. But she’s not letting it break her spirit. I can’t help but admire her grit.

CC: She does sound like a special woman. You mentioned she’s lost most of her family, but what about you and your family? Do you enjoy family gatherings?

MB: This is complicated. Yeah, I enjoy family gatherings. I still feel awkward being a deputy marshal in an Amish home, but my parents never say anything to make me feel that way. They are just tickled to have me back in their lives. And the food! No one cooks like my Mamm. She’s amazing. I’m getting hungry thinking about it. Of course, there is still some sorrow. No one has seen my brother Isaiah in more than fifteen years. I keep praying. I know the others do, too. My parents don’t talk about him. It’s too painful.

CC: That is really hard to cope with. I suspect I know your answer to my next question. If you could have anything in the world, what would it be?

MB: It would be a tie. If I weren’t so broken, my first wish would be that I could allow myself to fall for someone like Lissa and have a family of my own. Of course, that’s not something I see happening anytime soon. My second wish would be to see my brother Isaiah again. Man, I miss him so much. I can’t even talk about him, the pain is too raw, even after all this time. We were close once.

CC: Broken family relationships can be so incredibly hard. I look forward to reading the story to find out if you get any closure and if maybe a family is in store for your future.

Readers, if you like quick and suspenseful reads, then you need to check out Crime Scene Witness, now available online and sometimes at Walmart.

About Dana R. Lynn:

Dana R. Lynn is a USA Today and Publishers Weekly bestselling author who believes in the power of God to touch people through stories. She met her husband at a wedding in Pennsylvania and told her parents she had met her future husband. Nineteen months later, they were married. Today, they live in rural Pennsylvania and are entering the world of empty nesters. She is a teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing by day and writes stories of romance and danger at night. Dana is an avid reader, loves cats and thinks chocolate should be a food group. Readers can contact her or sign up to receive her monthly newsletter at www.danarlynn.com.

Connect with Dana: Website  |  Newsletter  |  Facebook  |  Instagram  |  BookBub

Readers, what Love Inspired stories have you read before?

 

Meet Teagan Wright from The Visitor Plays a Game by Shawna Robison Young

Meet Teagan Wright from The Visitor Plays a Game by Shawna Robison Young

by | May 2, 2023 | Character Interview

I’ve known Shawna for a long time. She ‘s a sweet woman with a heart for her family and for the preschool kids she teaches. Her first book, The Unsuspecting Heather Meyers was a story close to her heart, and it was a joy to see her launch that into the world. I’m excited to be able to share with you her newest release and first foray into the cozy mystery world with The Visitor Plays a Game. Before I introduce you to her heroine, Teagen, allow me to introduce you to the story.

The Visitor Plays a Game by Shawna Robison Young

How do a Yellow Mustang, a missing Dog, and a game of Clue add up to murder? Connie B. Wright must unravel the mystery. Teagan Wright is determined to impress Aunt Connie. Her fondest hope is to work with her for the Wright Foundation, and organizing a small part of this elaborate fundraiser is a great opportunity to show what she can do. But when her best friend is the victim of a hit and run and her least favorite person winds up missing, Teagan becomes more focused on proving that isn’t the one to blame. Then there’s the body she finds . . .

Purchase Links: Amazon

Now for our interview with Teagan.

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

TW: Hello, my name is Teagan Wright. As the daughter of a police officer, it’s no surprise I love the game of Clue and a good mystery. I’m a senior in high school and just got accepted to the University of Chicago. Go Maroons! I plan to follow in my Aunt Connie’s footsteps by pursuing a degree in business and then hopefully work for her at our family’s foundation someday. Like Mary Poppins, my aunt is practically perfect in every way. I was hoping to impress her and prove myself when she came in town for the fundraiser I helped put together for a local organization that provides sports training by top athletes to underprivileged youth. But now that I’m the number one suspect in a hit and run, I have found myself in the middle of a real-life game of Clue and must prove my innocence to not only the police but my little town and my beloved Aunt Connie.

CC: That is a tough place to be at any age, especially as a high school senior. What is your biggest struggle or fear?

TW: My biggest fear is that something bad is going to happen to the people I love. My mom died when I was ten years old. My dad is a police officer, so his life is on the line every day. I’m really proud of him, but I’m scared every time he leaves for work.

CC: That is really hard. And now you’re under investigation for a hit and run. What a way for all those fears to run together. Do you have a dream that you keep close to your chest that you can share with us?

TW:I really want to work for my family’s foundation someday. My aunt Connie runs the organization, and she is amazing. I want to be just like her. She’s smart, perfect, kind, and tough. And she often finds herself caught up looking into the mystery of the town she’s currently visiting. She’s so cool. But what’s not cool is this time, the crime my aunt has found herself trying to solve involves me as a suspect.

CC: Who is your least favorite person to deal with? 

TW: Oh my goodness, hands down Lacey Brown. She’s a bully and is dating my best friend, Ty. I don’t know what he sees in her. Oh, and Mr. Lewis next door. He isn’t the nicest man. You hear the stories about the old man who yells from his porch for children to stay off his lawn? Yep, that’s Mr. Lewis.

CC: Grumpy neighbors can definitely pose a challenge, and so can the mean girlfriend of your best friend. So let’s flip the question, who is your favorite person to deal with?

TW: Ryan Dodger. *BLUSHING* We’ve been friends since elementary school, but in the last six months, I’ve started to see him as more. Strawberry blonde hair, blue eyes, gorgeous, but more than that he is incredibly kind, the basketball team captain, class president, and all-around great guy.

CC: Awww. Crushes can be so sweet. What is one of your happiest memories?

TW: My happiest memories are the times my mom and I would sit at the table drawing together with the beautiful gel pens set she’d given me before she passed away. She was an incredible artist and made me the most beautiful pictures.

CC: Such a beautiful but bittersweet memory. It must have been really hard to have lost her. Do you have a relationship with God or has that experience pushed you away? 

TW: God is a big part of my life. I know who I am and whose I am. When people in my past tried to knock me down, I stood my ground and remained true to me. I know that’s because I’m confident in who I am in Christ.

CC: Such a powerful truth! And I’m so glad you have that confidence already in your life. If there is one thing you could tell the reader, what would it be?

TW: Even the most vile people are capable of redemption. Jesus died for all of us. Sometimes Satan gets a hold of our hearts, and he finds a way of twisting our hurts until we break and change. Look for the hurting and stop Satan from winning. Pray and be there for them. And even when it’s hard, accept their apologies to heal both your hearts.

CC: Such wisdom from a young woman. May we all learn to pray and be there for the people we struggle with. 

Friends, if you enjoy quick, fun, and mysterious reads, you’re going to want to check out The Visitor Plays a Game. You won’t regret it. 

CONCLUSION 

About Shawna Robison Young:

Shawna Robison Young is a contemporary fiction author who enjoys writing a little bit of the unexpected. Why be normal? In a world of conformity, a touch of something out of the ordinary can make a work of art astonishing.

Shawna loves all things chocolate, especially a warm cup of hot chocolate and sea salt caramel truffles. She is the mother of four, a preschool owner and teacher, a former children’s minister, and the wife of a Navy veteran. Whether it’s singing the ABCs, sharing what she’s learned with new writers, or passing along Bible truths to her children’s ministry classes, she’s a teacher at heart.

Connect with Shawna: Website  |  Pinterest  |  Facebook  |  Instagram  |  GoodReads

Readers, what cozy mysteries have you read before?

 

Giveaway & Meet Lillian Doyle from The Swindler’s Daughter by Stephenia H. McGee

Giveaway & Meet Lillian Doyle from The Swindler’s Daughter by Stephenia H. McGee

by | Apr 25, 2023 | Character Interview

Hi all! Stephenia has blessed us today with a character interview AND a chance to win a print copy of The Swindler’s Daughter. To be entered for your chance to win, check out the bottom of the post. But first, the interview!

I first met/read one of Stephenia’s books when I was very early on my writing journey. It’s been fun watching her writing career evolve over the years. I’m really excited about her newest release, The Swindler’s Daughter, and today I am excited to introduce you to the heroine, Lillian Doyle. First, let me introduce you to the story.

The Swindler’s Daughter by Stephenia H. McGee

A surprise inheritance. A cache of family secrets. A choice that will change her life forever.

Lillian Doyle has lived her entire high-society life with her widowed mother, believing her father died long ago. But when news arrives that her estranged father only recently passed away–in jail–Lillian is startled to find that the man has left a business and all of his possessions to her, making her a rather unusual heiress.

When she goes to take possession of her father’s house in a backwoods Georgia town, the dilapidated structure is already occupied by another woman who claims it was promised to her son, Jonah. In her attempts to untangle the mess, Lillian will discover not only a family she never knew she had but a family business that is more than meets the eye–and has put a target on her back.

To discover the truth and take hold of the independence she’s always dreamed of, she’ll have to make friends with adversaries and strangers–especially Jonah, the dusty and unrefined cowboy who has secret aspirations of his own.

Purchase Links: Amazon  |  Baker Book House  |  Barnes & Noble  |  Christianbook

Now for our interview with Lillian.

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

LD: Hello, everyone! My name is Lillian, and I am the reluctant heroine of this story. You see, I always believed my mother to be a widow and my father long dead. Turns out that isn’t quite the case.

CC: That is a pretty shocking discovery! And definitely very troubling. What else can you tell us about your story?

LD: I’ve lived my entire life with a mother who wants nothing more than to achieve high-society status. Up until a few days ago, I thought my father had died a long time ago. But then news arrived that my estranged father only recently passed away—in jail. He left a business and all of his possessions to me, but…well, he’s made me a rather unusual heiress.

Then on top of all of that, when I went to take possession of my father’s house in a backwoods Georgia town, the dilapidated structure was already occupied by another woman who claims it was promised to her son! It’s quite the mess.


CC: Yikes! How has this revelation affected you? 

LD: It’s caused quite the topsy-turvy in my life, let me tell you. Mother and I already had a strain on our relationship—what with her wanting to marry me off to the highest bidder and all—and the revelation of my new inheritance hasn’t helped matters.

CC: Now that you are an heiress, will your plans change?

LD: Everything has changed. My father left me little more than a mystery and house without answers. There’s a lot I need to do to settle the estate—a challenge that has become even more difficult since there are other people trying to lay claim to my father’s home. Jonah insists that the house should go to his family, but my father’s will left it to me.

CC: Who is Jonah?

LD: He is the stubborn cowboy who has apparently taken it upon himself to make everything more difficult for me. It seems my father’s family prematurely gave the house to Jonah’s mother, and Jonah is determined to make sure his mother and sisters aren’t tossed out. As if I would do such a thing!

CC: So what are you going to do now?

LD: To discover the truth and take hold of the independence I’ve secretly always dreamed of, I’ll have to figure out the truth about what my father left behind. It’s a mess for certain, but there has to be something good at the end of this tangle of secrets. Right?

CC: We certainly hope so! Thank you for letting us get to know you a little better. One final question to leave our readers with. If there was one thing you could tell someone reading your story, what would it be?

LD: Don’t be afraid to reach for your dreams. The best things in life often come on the other side of difficulty. It might be hard to face your calling or take a leap of faith, but it’s a risk worth taking!

That is a hard but good lesson that takes a lot of bravery. Readers, don’t miss your chance to read Lillian’s story and figure out all the mystery behind her inheritance.

About Stephenia McGee:

Stephenia H. McGee is a multi-published author of stories of faith, hope, and healing set in the Deep South. She lives in Mississippi, where she is a mom of two rambunctious boys, writer, dreamer, and husband spoiler. Her novel The Cedar Key was a 2021 Faith, Hope, and Love Readers’ Choice award winner. A member of the ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers) and the DAR (Daughters of the American Revolution), she loves all things books and history. Stephenia also loves connecting with readers and can often be found having fun with her Faithful Readers Team on Facebook. For more on books and upcoming events and to connect with Stephenia, visit her at www.StepheniaMcGee.com.

Connect with Stephenia: Website  |  Stephenia’s Shop  |  Facebook  |  Instagram  |  BookBub  |  GoodReads

 

Stephenia is giving away a copy of The Secrets of Emberwild to one commenter on this blog post. If you could inherit anything, what would you want to inherit?

*US residents only

**Extra entries are available below, but those who do not comment on the blog will be disqualified

 

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