Character Interview | Crystal Caudill

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

by Crystal Caudill | 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.

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

Meet Luke Gallagher from Beyond Wounded Hearts by Cynthia Roemer

by Crystal Caudill | Apr 18, 2023 | Character Interview

Hi all! It is a blessing to bring Cynthia Roemer back today to introduce to you her hero of Beyond Wounded Hearts, Luke Gallagher. I’ve known Cynthia for a long time now, and it has been a blessing to watch her walk through writing and a continuing cancer journey. She is a woman who always glorifies and points back to God. I highly recommend all of her books (which you can check out through the link in her bio at the end) and pray you will get to be an encouragement to her. (Prayers for her cancer journey are always welcomed too!).

So before I introduce you to Luke, let me introduce you to Beyond Wounded Hearts.

Beyond Wounded Hearts by Cynthia Roemer

They were North and South ~ Faithful and Faithless

After suffering disabling burns during the fall of Richmond, Adelaide Hanover awakens in a hospital alone and destitute, escalating her already stanch hatred for Yankees. When the Union soldier who freed her from the rubble begins paying her visits, she wants nothing to do with him … or his faith. Yet, his persistent kindness penetrates her resolve and forges a much-needed friendship. But after a dangerous man threatens Addie, she flees Richmond, intent on solving the mystery to her aunt’s dying wish before he does. Haunted by a tragic failure in his past, Corporal Luke Gallagher takes Adelaide’s plight on as his own. Though his strong beliefs collide with his growing feelings for her, he offers his family’s home as a place to convalesce. Adelaide’s initial rejection, followed by her sudden willingness to accept his benevolence, hints there’s more to the decision than a mere change of heart. When trouble follows her, endangering her safety, as well as his family’s, Luke must lay his life and his convictions on the line to save them.

Purchase Links: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Books-a-Million

Now for our interview with Luke.

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

LG: Hi. I’m Luke Gallagher. I’m what Cynthia Roemer calls “the hero”, though it’s hard for me to consider myself a hero. I’m more a simple man of faith who makes his living from the soil. Right now, though, I’m a Union soldier just itching to get home.

CC: I find it’s the everyday man who is my favorite hero. So let’s start with diving deep. Don’t hate me, but . . . What is your biggest struggle? Your biggest fear?

LG: Whoa. I’d have to say my biggest struggle is dealing with guilt. When I was younger, I had this friend named Jacob, you see. We were best buds from the time we could romp together in the woods or pull girl’s pigtails at school. We shared everything. Everything but faith.

When I was eleven, I became a Christian. I took seriously my relationship with the Lord. But somehow, I never got around to sharing that with Jacob. He came from a different sort of family than me–one on the wilder side. I figured he’d laugh at me, so I kept my faith to myself.

Then one day, when we were thirteen, Jacob had this crazy notion of building a raft and floating it down the river. I wasn’t keen on the idea. Especially since the river was running high from recent rains. But I went along with the idea. Once we had the raft built, we shoved it in, poles in hand. We figured we could stick close to the banks and dock a mile or two downstream. What we didn’t know was just how strong the current was.

The raft wasn’t strong enough to withstand the push of the river. It busted into pieces within a few hundred feet of where we’d shoved off. I found a branch to grab onto, but Jacob was swept further downstream. Him being a poor swimmer, he was sucked under and drown.

I shouldered the guilt of his passing for years to come. But mostly, I blamed myself for his soul being lost. I should have shared my faith with him when I had the chance. So I guess my biggest fear became thinking God wouldn’t accept me because I’d failed to do His bidding.

CC: Yikes! That is a heavy burden to bear. So what did you do? How did your feelings of guilt and fear impact your life?

LG: At first, I bottled those feelings inside. But, the older I got, I figured if I was ever going to be able to look Jesus in the eye when my day came, I’d better start sharing my faith to make up for my mistake. So I started being intentional about telling others about Jesus. When I joined the Union army, I even gave my sergeant a few not so gentle nudges. And eventually a wayward Confederate soldier. But Adelaide Hanover was my biggest challenge. She held such bitterness in her heart toward God, blamed him for all her struggles. I sent up a lot of prayers on her behalf.

It took my mother’s wisdom to finally bring me to my senses and help me realize I could never work my way into God’s good graces. Jesus paid the price for my sins. There is nothing I could ever do to earn a place in Heaven by my own merits.

CC: That’s a lesson we all can learn from. Tell me more about Adelaide Hanover. Who is she? Why was she so bitter toward God?

LG: I met Adelaide while in Richmond during the Union takeover. My men and I discovered her buried beneath the rubble of a burned building. She was alive, but barely. I carried her to the closest hospital, fearing the worst. Her arms and hands were badly burned. But I was soon to learn her heart was even more scarred.

She’d been through a lot–the loss of her father and brothers, her home, and now her injuries. When I dropped by to see her, I didn’t expect a warm reception, but I was a bit taken aback by her obvious resentment. I figured her being a Southern gal, she wouldn’t take to a Yankee, but I hadn’t figured on her being so opposed to my faith. At one point, she ordered me to leave and never return. I lost sleep over that encounter. By my third or fourth visit, I’d become pretty attached to her. And I didn’t want another person I cared about to suffer Jacob’s fate.

CC: I’m guessing Adelaide softened at some point. What turned things around?

LG: I’m not rightly sure, other than God must have answered my prayers. One day she just welcomed me back. She still got her dander up when I mentioned God, and her intolerance for Yankees hadn’t changed much, but she seemed to soften a bit toward me. Maybe out of pure lonesomeness. She was pretty alone. I think she sort of missed my company.

But that didn’t make her more apt to go along with my offer to help her convalesce. (chuckle) She must have thought me loony to make such a suggestion. In fact, I sort of thought so myself.

CC: Oh? What did you propose?

LG: The hospital she was at was closing, and she had no one to tend to her care, so I suggested she go stay with my mother and sister in New York. That idea went over like a lead balloon. She wanted no part in staying under a Yankee roof.

But, once again, I credit the Lord for softening her heart. Well, there was also this fellow named Simon that kept threatening her. He might have had a hand in her change of mind. Anyhow, she went, and God used that time with my family to speak godly truths into her heart. By the time I returned home from the war, she’d lost her hardened shell. But her troubles weren’t over, and neither were mine.

CC: Hmm. Well, now. That opens a whole new can of worms, so to speak. Shall we leave that for readers to discover on their own by reading your story?

LG: Definitely. All I’ll say is the Lord indeed works in mysterious ways. I never would have dreamed what He had in store.

So readers, I encourage you to go and pick up Beyond Wounded Hearts by Cynthia Roemer. You won’t regret it. In the comments, leave some encouragement for Cynthia so that we can bless her as much as she has been a blessing to me.

About Cynthia Roemer

Cynthia Roemer is an inspirational, award-winning author with a heart for scattering seeds of hope into the hearts of readers. Cynthia enjoys spinning tales set in the backdrop of the mid-1800’s prairie and Civil War era. It’s her prayer that her stories will both entertain and encourage readers in their faith. She resides with her husband on their family farm in central Illinois. They have two grown sons, a daughter-in-law, and one spoiled cat. Visit Cynthia online at: www.cynthiaroemer.com

Meet Cassie Kendrick from Where Dandelions Bloom by Tara Johnson

by Crystal Caudill | Apr 4, 2023 | Character Interview

If you’ve never read one of Tara Johnson’s books, I have a treat for you today. Where Dandelions Blooms is my favorite book from her, and Cassie Kendrick is in the house for a character interview. I don’t want to steal her thunder from giving herself an introduction, so I’ll introduce you to Where Dandelions Bloom instead.

Where Dandelions Bloom by Tara Johnson

Cassie Kendrick is on the run. Her abusive father arranged her marriage to a despicable man, but she’s discovered an escape. Disguised as a man, Cassie enlists in the Union army, taking the name Thomas Turner. On the battlefields of the Civil War, keeping her identity a secret is only the beginning of her problems, especially after she meets Gabriel Avery, a handsome young photographer.

Anxious to make his mark on the world and to erase the darkness and guilt lurking from his past, Gabriel works with renowned photographer Matthew Brady to capture images from the front lines of the war. As Gabriel forges friendships with many of the men he encounters, he wonders what the courageous, unpredictable Thomas Turner is hiding.

Battling betrayal, their own personal demons, and a country torn apart by war, can Cassie and Gabriel learn to forgive themselves and trust their futures to the God who births hope and healing in the darkest places?

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

Now for our interview with Cassie.

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

CK: I’m so tired of running…mostly from my father. You see, he arranged my marriage to our next-door neighbor–a horrible fellow named Erastus Leeds–and when I refused, he threatened me. I never could do anything right in his eyes.

But the Almighty provided a way to escape. Mere days before our doomed wedding, I learned war had been declared between the states. The plan was risky for sure and certain, but I was raised as a farm girl. I know how to handle a weapon. I snuck away from home in the dead of night, chopped off all my hair, and slipped on the disguise of a young man before enlisting in the Michigan 2nd under the name Thomas Turner.

My first obstacle was passing the physician’s inspection. No worries there. All he wanted to know was if I had at least three teeth to tear open powder cartridges. When he saw I had more than enough to spare, he signed a slip of paper declaring me fit for duty.

My second problem is the nosy photographer that has been assigned to follow our regiment. Gabriel Avery is his name. He wants to become a famous photographer like that Mathew Brady fellow. Gabe is likeable enough, I suppose, but he never quits talking! And he doesn’t really know how to defend himself out here on the battlefield. That became apparent when I had to save his skin on more than one occasion. Worse than covering his mistakes is how close we’ve grown in the past few months. I’m not sure what would be worse…being sent home in disgrace to face a miserable future, or Gabe learning I’m not Thomas Turner at all.

No matter what I choose, I’ll be destroying someone…including myself.

CC: Those are some terrible choices, and, knowing your story, it doesn’t get any easier for you. The challenges you face both as a female soldier and as a soldier in general. It is heartbreaking. . . and yet the hope that your story brings is one that I will never forget.

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?

CK: Most people see me as quiet, introverted, and a male. For now, I don’t mind the anonymity. To hide is to escape.

CC: I’d say it’s definitely a good thing for everyone not to know the real you in this situation.

What is your biggest struggle? Your biggest fear?

CK: My biggest fear is being trapped in the same cycle of abuse I’ve endured my entire life. First with my alcoholic father and now with a betrothal to Erastus Leeds. The rejection slices too deeply to endure anymore. Even my mother, the one person who should have protected me, is under Father’s immovable thumb. I cannot, I will not, be smothered any longer. If my future leads to nothing more than heartache and ashes, at least it will be by my own choosing…no one else’s.

CC: Escaping the cycle of abuse is a terrible struggle. Abuse affects so many. . . it’s just heartbreaking. At least this way, you get a choice in how you move forward. Even if it comes with its own consequences.

Do you have a dream you keep close to your chest that you can share with us? Is there a specific reason you want this?

CK: To run, to be free. Free from my father. Free from death. Free from pain. Even free from myself.

CC: The ultimate freedom. I think we all seek it in different forms and fashions. It’s so hard to really wrap our minds around the truth of real freedom, but we all long for it.

Who is your least favorite person to deal with? (in the story) Why?

CK: I used to think my biggest problem was Gabe! When we first met, he was too talkative, too nosy, too naive, too…well, everything. But now the handsome photographer is starting to grow on me. I look forward to our chats, his laughter, and the way he looks at the world. Oddly enough, as Gabe and I have grown closer, I’ve noticed a strange gleam in Briggs’ eyes. My fellow soldier and fighter. I’m not sure why, but from time to time, I sense him watching me. And I don’t like it one bit.

CC: I have to say, Gabe does grow on a reader very quickly while Briggs . . . he’d make me uncomfortable too.

Who is your favorite person to deal with? Why?

CK: Grandma Ardie. She is a testament of unconditional love and grace…probably the only true example of love and patience I’ve witnessed in my life. I would give my life for hers a thousand times over.

CC: Grandmas hold a special place in our hearts. I’m actually sort of realizing for the first time that I no longer have any grandmas in my life. `In fact, this question prompted me to call and check on my only Grandpa left. They truly are special people in our lives.

Readers, don’t miss your chance to read Cassie’s story. It is one that will stick with you for years after the story is over, and you’ll NEVER look at dandelions the same.

About Tara Johnson:

Tara Johnson is an author and speaker, and loves to write stories that help people break free from the lies they believe about themselves.

Tara’s debut novel Engraved on the Heart (Tyndale) earned a starred review from Publishers Weekly, and finaled in the Carol and Christy awards. Her latest releases, Where Dandelions Bloom and All Through the Night were also published through Tyndale.

In addition to being published in a variety of digital and print magazines, she has been a featured guest on Voice of Truth radio, Enduring Word radio, television, and numerous podcasts. She is a history nerd, especially the Civil War, and adores making people laugh. She, her husband, and her children live in Arkansas.

Readers, are you Civil War fiction fans? Share the titles and authors of your favorite ones below. If you’re not a fan, let me encourage you to try one of Tara’s stories. They don’t strike me as the typical Civil War story, and they leave a lasting impact on your faith. EXCELLENT stories.

Meet Gemma Bennett from Husband Auditions and Hero Debut by Angela Ruth Strong

by Crystal Caudill | Mar 14, 2023 | Character Interview

I love doing character interviews, especially with characters who I’ve had the pleasure of reading about. Gemma Bennett is a hoot. I had the pleasure of meeting Gemma as a side character in The Husband Auditions by Angela Ruth Strong and again during Angela’s novella “Perfect Light” ( from the We Three Kings Collection coming out in September). She was fun, exciting, and totally deserving of her own story . . . which she FINALLY gets in the upcoming novel Hero Debut, releasing on August 29th. So in preparation for all that, it is my joy to introduce you to Gemma and her story.

The Hero Debut by Angela Ruth Strong

“Once again, Angela Ruth Strong combines comedic moments with gospel truth, delivering another page-turner.” — Toni Shiloh, Christy Award–winning author of In Search of a Prince

Gemma Bennett is the leading lady of her own life, and her true love is writing screenplays. With her trusty pink notebook in hand, she signs up for the Citizen’s Police Academy to research her newest blockbuster hope, “The Dangers of Dating a Detective.” And the fact that the handsome and heroic Lieutenant Karson Zellner is the one leading the training? Well, that’s a bonus.

Karson already has his fair share of problems before Gemma shows up, and he’s not exactly a fan of the ditzy blonde who can’t seem to stay out of trouble. The last thing he needs is a damsel in distress to rescue; there are plenty of people in real need of his help. The fact that she seems to think his job makes him a superhero is just one more strike against her. This isn’t a movie, and he feels like the furthest thing from a leading man.

Gemma can’t seem to stop doing the worst, most embarrassing things at just the wrong time. The harder she works to make things right, the worse things get for her perfect screenplay and her perfect romance. Can she step out of her own way to find the hero her story needs? Or will real life foil a happy ending?

Hero Debut will delight readers looking for hilarity, heart, and happily-ever-afters with a foundation of faith and a reminder that, no matter what our relationship status, Jesus is the real hero of our lives.

Purchase Links: While you can’t preorder Hero Debut YET, you can check out Gemma’s first appearance (including a scene where she practiced trying to escape being tied up) in the Husband Auditions.

Amazon | Baker Book House | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Christianbook

Now for our interview with Gemma.

CC: I’m so glad to have you here, Gemma. Would you introduce yourself to my readers?

GB: I’d describe myself as a screenplay writer even though I haven’t sold a script yet. To pay bills, I teach high school English, which thankfully allows me to focus on my writing in the summers.

Sometimes when I meet directors to pitch my stories, they are more interested in putting me in front of the camera because I’m tall and blonde. Hence, I do a little acting in hopes that it’ll get my foot in the studio door, but usually the real playwrights get annoyed by my suggestions and kill off my character. It’s tragic.

This summer, I’m not acting though. I’m going to attend a citizen’s police academy as research for my next project. Oh, and also because the police officer teaching it is my personal hero.

See, I had my roommates wrap me in duct tape so I could try breaking free in order to improve a scene I was working on when a neighbor called the police. Karson Zellner busted into our townhome to rescue me. He wasn’t thrilled to find out I’d been perfectly safe the whole time, but his grumpiness just made him even cuter.

In the “biz,” I get so many men who want something from me that it was refreshing to meet a man who only wanted to help. Unfortunately, he isn’t a fan of filmmaking and ignores all my attempts at connection, but I’m undeterred. I’ll simply take my roommates to his training class as my wingmen.

We’ll be racing cop cars, watching the K-9 Unit train, and practicing self-defense. I’ll be taking lots of notes, particularly on the cornflower blue shade of Lieutenant Zellner’s eyes. He can’t arrest me for that, can he?

CC: Oh my goodness, Gemma. I’m cracking up. And doing a citizen’s police academy sounds like a lot of fun. I can’t wait to read how your experience goes! You’ve hinted at a little, but given you’re getting ready to be the heroine of your own novel, how do you think others view you? Do you feel this is an accurate representation?

GB: Others seem to think of me as a dumb blonde. Like the directors who don’t want to listen to my ideas and my successful sister who I’m always being compared to. Yeah, I can be a little flighty, but that’s because I’m too busy thinking all kinds of deep thoughts to focus on reality.

CC: Oh, do I feel you on that one! Sometimes I get so frustrated with myself, but half our time is spent working through real, albeit fictional, problems that need our full attention. What is your biggest struggle?

GB: I want to prove myself so my sister doesn’t look down on me anymore. I want to be equals again rather than rivals. If I can sell a screenplay, she’ll have to take me seriously.

CC: Hugs. That is so hard when our family doesn’t value what we do and uses it as an opportunity to look down on us. Who is your least favorite person to deal with in this story?

GB: My twin sister, Jewel. Did you know she rigged homecoming court to steal the crown from me and become queen in high school? She was also accepted into the good college. Plus she got married and has children. My niece and nephew are the best, and I may be a little jealous.

CC: Oh man! On top of everything, she’s your TWIN sister? My deepest sympathies. I can’t even imagine. Let’s think on a happier note. Who is your favorite person to deal with in Hero Debut?

GB: My roommates share my dreams of movie-making and appreciate my writing skills, so it’s fun to work together on projects like the upcoming 48-hour film competition. They are also joining me at Safety Academy to support my interest in Karson. Charlie is his not-so-subtle self where matchmaking is involved, and Kai still has a grudge against the law enforcement officer for pulling a gun on him when “rescuing” me, but they do their best.

CC: LOL. I’m so glad that we’ll get to see Kai again. It was awesome to watch him grow so much in Husband Auditions. So now lets get to the juicy part of a rom-com. Tell me about Karson, your love interest?

GB: Intense. He crosses his arms and grunts a lot. For some reason he doesn’t want others to know how much he cares, but I can tell that’s why he took this job with the police department. And he’s a good teacher, which I know isn’t easy.

CC: Grumpy heroes are so much fun. I actually think they might be some of my favorites. I cannot WAIT until Hero Debut releases and I get to see all the trouble you cause him. It’s going to be fun!

Readers, don’t miss your chance to see meet Gemma and read the scene where Gemma first met Karson in Husband Auditions. I’ve put the blurbe below Angela’s bio. 🙂 You don’t want to miss it, and you can read my review of Husband Auditions here.

About Angela Ruth Strong:

Angela Ruth Strong sold her first Christian romance novel in 2009. Her books have since earned TOP PICK in Romantic Times, been a finalist for the Christy, won the Cascade Award, and become Amazon best-sellers. Her book Finding Love in Big Sky filmed as a movie in Montana and aired on UPtv in 2022. To help aspiring authors, she started IDAhope Writers where she lives in Idaho and blogs regularly for My Book Therapy..

Husband Auditions by Angela Ruth Strong

How far would you go to find the perfect husband? All the way back to the 1950s?

In a world full of happily-ever-after love, Meri Newberg feels like the last young woman on the planet to be single, at least in her Christian friend group. So when she’s handed a strange present at the latest wedding–a 1950s magazine article of “ways to get a husband”–she decides there’s nothing to lose by trying out its advice. After all, she can’t get any more single, can she?

Her brother’s roommate sees the whole thing as a great opportunity. Not to fall in love–Kai Kamaka has no interest in the effort a serious relationship takes. No, this is a career jump start. He talks Meri into letting him film every silly husband-catching attempt for a new online show. If it goes viral, his career as a cameraman will be made.

When Meri Me debuts, it’s an instant hit. People love watching her lasso men on street corners, drop handkerchiefs for unsuspecting potential beaus, and otherwise embarrass herself in pursuit of true love. But the longer this game goes on, the less sure Kai is that he wants Meri to snag anyone but him. The only problem is that he may not be the kind of husband material she’s looking for . . .

With droll comic timing, unbeatable chemistry, and a zany but relatable cast of characters, Angela Ruth Strong has created a heartfelt look at the reality of modern Christian dating that readers will both resonate with and fall for.

Readers, how do you feel about grumpy heroes? Yay or nay?

Meet Lu Thorne from Counterfeit Hope by Crystal Caudill

by Crystal Caudill | Feb 14, 2023 | Character Interview, Counterfeit Hope

HAPPY RELEASE DAY, ANDREW AND LU!!!!!!

I can think of no better way to celebrate than to give you a personal interview with the main characters. I had the pleasure of interviewing Secret Service operative Andrew Darlington on Reading is My Super Power a couple of Saturdays ago. You can read Andrew’s interview HERE. Then come back here and read my interview with Lu. (Or read Lu first and then jump to Andrew.) I had such a blast getting to talk to these characters. And for those who wonder if our characters really talk to us, their authors? Yes. Yes, they do. In my head, my characters are almost as autonomous as my children. I created them (by God’s power and grace), but they have each taken on lives of their own.

Before I introduce Lu to you properly, let me introduce you to her story. (And don’t forget to check out the giveaway opportunities at the post’s bottom.)

Counterfeit Hope by Crystal Caudill

Trapped by their pasts, is there hope for a future?

When Secret Service operative Andrew Darlington is brought in to support a US Marshal case involving counterfeiters in rural Indiana, he thinks it’s simply the next rung on his climb to the top of his career. But liars can only climb so high–and Andrew is keeping a dangerous secret he doesn’t ever want to get out. When he clashes with the criminal family that took over the town of Landkreis and killed the Marshal he was sent to assist, his past life is in danger of being exposed.

Widow “Lightning Lu” Thorne has only one goal: escape the clutches of the Thorne family with her son. Her decision to be an informant and testify against the Thornes looked like the perfect answer. Until the Marshal ended up dead. Now the tether keeping her tied to her felonious family is tightening, and a forced marriage to someone else in the Thornes’ clutches threatens to kill any hope of escape.

Andrew and Lu find themselves on the same team–unwillingly. They each believe the other to be the enemy to their future plans. And even if they could learn to work together, the secrets they hold could shatter all hopes and dreams. Despite the encouragement of the local preacher, they’re not even sure God can be trusted–much less other humans. Can either of them escape their past–and the family that is willing to kill their own when they smell betrayal?

Now on to our interview with Lu.

Crystal: This story is quite a bit different from Counterfeit Love, and a lot of that is because of who you are and your very challenging past. So why don’t you start off by telling my readers about yourself?

Lu: I’m not exactly your sweet and innocent little lady. In fact, if you saw me while on the same sidewalk, you’d probably cross the street to avoid me. You can pretend you wouldn’t, but I’ve got twenty years of people looking at me in my bold and revealing dresses to combat the lies you tell yourself. There are lots of names they use for my type. Some are a little nicer than others–lady of the night, soiled dove, harlot . . . you get the picture. Not that I am actively a part of that life anymore. I just let people believe that I am. It’s easier that way. Then they won’t look too closely and discover truths I don’t want them to see.

Crystal: That isn’t exactly the type of heroine I envisioned for Counterfeit Hope. In fact, ALL I envisioned was you being a pickpocket. The other stuff completely blindsided me when you finally chose to trust me with your story. Why did you choose that path to begin with?

Lu: Choose? You think I chose that life? Ha! There are a few who willingly enter that life, but most of us enter because we have no other choice. I was just like any other girl when I was young. I lived in Tennessee with my Ma and Pa. I even went to school for a year. Then the War hit. Ma died, and Pa took me and fled to Colorado to search for gold and silver. Anything he found, he exchanged for drink. When the gold and silver dried up, he exchanged me instead. Finally, he sold me to a brothel where I lived and worked for over ten years. Ain’t much choice for me on that path.

Even getting out I didn’t have much choice. Clint and Irvine Thorne were regulars, and when they had to hightail it out of Colorado, Irvine offered to marry me and take me with him. I wasn’t getting any offers elsewhere, so it was in my best interest to say yes. The Madam wouldn’t allow it, but Ma Frances paid a price for me, and off I went to join them. Had I known what that life would entail, I’m not sure I would have followed Irvine. But then again, I wouldn’t have my son, Oscar, and Oscar is worth everything I’ve been through.

Crystal: Are you hoping that Oscar will grow up to be just like his dad?

Lu: The only thing I want Oscar to share with his father is his looks. While the sweetest of the Thornes, Irvine was only as sweet as a rattler dipped in honey and poised to strike. Cross him when he was drunk or angry, and there was a price to pay. When he was in a good mood, he was sweet as could be and I generally enjoyed being with him. He was good at protecting me from his brother, Clint, and I had high hopes that if I could get him away from his family, there might be a better future for us.

And that’s what I hope for Oscar. If I can just get him away from the Thorne family, maybe he can grow up to be a good and honorable man. One like Pastor Newcomb. I want a future for him as far from the crime life as I can get him, and I’m willing to do anything to get him away. I just have to bide my time for the right moment. Ma Frances would kill me if she knew I was trying to take Oscar away from her.

CC: Why are you afraid of her? Isn’t she just a sweet, old grandma?

Lu: *Snort* A sweet old grandma with poisoned food, talons for fingers, and a derringer at the ready. All the Thornes are scared of their mother, even Clint. Cross her and you ain’t gonna forget it. She regularly poisons our meals just to keep us in line and remind us how much we need her. She keeps a tight rein on her family and whip at the ready if we even get a thought of rebelling. If she finds out I plan on escaping with Oscar, she’ll either sell me to the local brothel to make her money back and watch me suffer, or she’ll just flat-out murder me and bury me next to Irvine.

Crystal: That sounds like a rough existence.

Lu: You got that right. But it’s not forever. Pastor Newcomb tells me that I can leave my past behind and become one of those new creatures. And that’s what I intend to do. For both Oscar and me. And I was so close to succeeding too. But I’m not giving up yet. I can’t. Oscar deserves a better life with friends, an education, and a safe home. Whatever it takes, I’ll do it.

Cyrstal: What if that “whatever it takes” includes Andrew? I mean you haven’t mentioned him yet, but I know you’ve been spending a lot of time with him lately.

Lu: That so-called “Doc”? Don’t get your hopes up too much. He’s as much a doctor as I am a saint. I’d bet all the money I’ve ever picked that he’s a con man and thief. I ain’t never been caught picking someone, and that man called me out AND picked ME without my notice. I tell you, he’s not what he seems. If it weren’t for the fact that my only ticket out of the Thorne family was stupid enough to eat a poisoned pie from Ma Frances, I wouldn’t care one wit about Doc Andrew. But until I can make a new plan to escape this family with Oscar, he’s a fun distraction. I pick Doc’s wallet every time I see him, and every time he comes to collect it, he sticks his foot so far in his mouth that I give it a shove so he’ll choke on it. Although, the man does have a bit of a hero streak, the poor fool. He thinks he can cross Clint and save me from Clint’s advances. All that is going to do is tick Clint off and put a target on his head. And Clint doesn’t miss a shot. For Doc’s sake, I hope he wises up. I like him too much to see him as a corpse.

Crystal: I suppose that’s a good thing since he’s the hero of the story.

Lu: What do you mean he’s the hero? I may not be able to read, but I know enough about books to know a heroine and hero end up together in the end. I tell you, there is no way I’ll ever willingly marry again.

Crystal: Willingly being the keyword.

Lu: What do you mean by that?

Crystal: And I think that is a good place to end this interview. If you want to find out what–

Lu: This interview is NOT over. What do you mean by willingly?

Crystal: You’ll just have to read the book to find out . . . or rather you’ll get to experience every time someone reads the book. . . Over and over and over again. This probably shouldn’t make me so happy. Just trust me, Lu. I have your best interest in mind.

Lu: Trust you? I don’t trust you as far as a can throw you.

Crystal: Probably wise, but you have no choice. Readers, I hope you will pick up Counterfeit Hope and give Lu the chance to have her entire life changed. If you have already read Counterfeit Hope, would you mind leaving a review? Below are the direct links to leave a review, just to make it easier. Thanks so much.

Question for Comments: Is there anything about Lu or Andrew that you found surprising? Anything you’d like to know?

About Crystal Caudill:

Crystal Caudill is a tea-drinking, book-hoarding, history nerd. Her award-winning stories are ripe with history, danger, love, and hope. When not writing, Crystal can be found playing board games with her husband and boys, caregiving for loved ones, hiding in a book, drinking copious amounts of hot tea, or connecting with readers. You can connect with her at www.crystalcaudill.com or by joining her newsletter crew at bitly.com/CaudillNews.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITIES

US RESIDENTS ONLY:
Giveaway: Bookload of Hope (LAST CHANCE)

Runs: January 15 – February 15, 2023, 11:59 pm EST

Prize: 1 winner – 8 paperbacks, 2 ebooks

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Giveaway: International Readers ONLY Giveaway

Runs: February 1 – February 28

Prize: 2 Winners – A print copy of Counterfeit Love or Counterfeit Hope to one winner outside of the US. Bookmarks and a signed bookplate will be mailed separately.

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Launch Party Prizes (LAST CHANCE)

Leave a comment on the posts from the launch party for a chance to win one of these prizes.
Comment at bit/ly/CHLaunchParty

Giveaways Galore!

by Crystal Caudill | Feb 7, 2023 | Character Interview, Counterfeit Hope

It is release month for Counterfeit Hope, and to kick it off, I’ve gathered all the giveaways I know of with opportunities to win a copy of Counterfeit Hope or Counterfeit Love. There is even a way for you to email me if you’ve preordered a copy so that you can get some free preorder goodies mailed to you. Looking for a free copy to read if you don’t win? I have a way for you to do that below.

First, what is Counterfeit Hope about?

Trapped by their pasts, is there hope for a future?

Have you preordered a copy?

If you pre-ordered a copy, be sure to email me your mailing address through the contact form so that you can get bookmarks, a signed bookplate, a Secret Service Quiz magnet, and a sticker mailed to you.

← Back

Thank you for your response. ✨

Looking for a way to read Counterfeit Hope for free?

Libraries are AMAZING places. I recommend you request your local library purchase the book in print or digital format. Most libraries have access to programs like Hoopla or Libby and are willing to purchase at least an e-copy. You can visit your library’s website or call them to ask how to request a book. My library asks for the following information, so I’m pasting it here to make it easier on you to request a copy. Unless you have a subscription to somewhere that allows access to multiple books, any other free copies you come across digitally are likely to be pirated. Please don’t be a pirate. Let me know if you find one somewhere, so I can report it. Let me also know if you have your library order it! I’d love to be able to put pins on my map to show that my book has traveled to all 50 states and even out of the country. 🙂

Title: Counterfeit Love
Author: Crystal Caudill
Publisher: Kregel Publications
ISBN-13: 978-0825447419
Yes, the book is purchasable through the venues where libraries purchase books.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITIES

Launch Party Prizes

Runs: February 13, 8 pm – 9 pm EST with commenting open until 11:59 pm EST on February 14.

Prize: 14 winners – One for each book and the “Choose Hope” bracelet

How to be entered: Attend the launch party and leave a comment on the posts.
RSVP at bit/ly/CHLaunchParty

Valentine’s Giveaway – February 1 – 14 *US Residents Only

Grand prize – 14 books, a beautiful bookmark, plus a box of Godiva

2 Runners Up – 14 books and a beautiful bookmark

Books included: A Mark of Grace by Kimberley Woodhouse, What Happens Next by Christina Suzann Nelson, All the Lost Places by Amanda Dykes, Counterfeit Hope by Crystal Caudill, Hearts of Steel by Elizabeth Camden, The Weight of Air by Kimberly Duffy, Engaging Deception by Regina Jennings, Where the Blue Sky Begins by Katie Powner, In Love’s Time by Kate Breslin, Pretty Little Pieces by Carmen Schober, The Telegraph Proposal by Gina Welborn and Becca Whitham, The Rose and the Thistle by Laura Frantz, The Italian Ballerina by Kristy Cambron, To Believe in You by Emily Conrad

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Gilded Age Giveaway – January 30 – February 14 *US Residents Only

WIN Books 1 & 2 Paperback Copies of Crystal Caudill’s Gilded Age SERIES: Counterfeit Love and Counterfeit Hope AND Books 1 & 2 Paperback Copies of Pepper Basham’s Gilded Age Series: The Mistletoe Countess AND The Cairo Curse

ENTER HERE

Bookload of Hope Giveaway – January 15 – February 15 *US Residents Only

8 print books, 2 ebooks, 1 Winner

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We Love Our Readers Celebrate Lit Giveaway – February 12 – February 19

Grand Prize: $500 Amazon card

1st Prize: 45 Books* (Author’s choice of format)

ENTER HERE

International Readers ONLY Giveaway (NO US residents) – February 1 – February 28

Choice of a print copy of Counterfeit Love or Counterfeit Hope, mailed separately signed bookplate, and bookmarks

2 Winners

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New Year, New Books – Free Books for Everyone

Check out 20 Titles free for download. Pick out which ones you want, sign up for their newsletter, and then download the book to enjoy.

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

Now for our interview with Lillian.

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

Meet Luke Gallagher from Beyond Wounded Hearts by Cynthia Roemer

Now for our interview with Luke.

Meet Cassie Kendrick from Where Dandelions Bloom by Tara Johnson

Now for our interview with Cassie.

Readers, are you Civil War fiction fans? Share the titles and authors of your favorite ones below. If you’re not a fan, let me encourage you to try one of Tara’s stories. They don’t strike me as the typical Civil War story, and they leave a lasting impact on your faith. EXCELLENT stories.

Meet Gemma Bennett from Husband Auditions and Hero Debut by Angela Ruth Strong

Now for our interview with Gemma.

Husband Auditions by Angela Ruth Strong

Readers, how do you feel about grumpy heroes? Yay or nay?

Meet Lu Thorne from Counterfeit Hope by Crystal Caudill

HAPPY RELEASE DAY, ANDREW AND LU!!!!!!

Now on to our interview with Lu.

Question for Comments: Is there anything about Lu or Andrew that you found surprising? Anything you’d like to know?

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITIES

US RESIDENTS ONLY: Giveaway: Bookload of Hope (LAST CHANCE)

Giveaway: International Readers ONLY Giveaway

Launch Party Prizes (LAST CHANCE)

Giveaways Galore!

First, what is Counterfeit Hope about?

Have you preordered a copy?

Thank you for your response. ✨

Looking for a way to read Counterfeit Hope for free?

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITIES

Launch Party Prizes

Valentine’s Giveaway – February 1 – 14 *US Residents Only

Gilded Age Giveaway – January 30 – February 14 *US Residents Only

Bookload of Hope Giveaway – January 15 – February 15 *US Residents Only

We Love Our Readers Celebrate Lit Giveaway – February 12 – February 19

International Readers ONLY Giveaway (NO US residents) – February 1 – February 28

New Year, New Books – Free Books for Everyone

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US RESIDENTS ONLY:
Giveaway: Bookload of Hope (LAST CHANCE)