Tuesday, August 29, 2023

"The Persistent Road" by Tim Bishop - Author Interview

 

About the Book

Book: The Persistent Road

Author: Tim Bishop

Genre: Contemporary Christian Fiction/outdoor adventure

Release Date: June 20, 2023

After losing all he once cherished, Doug Zimmer follows his wife’s parting bread crumbs and rides up the Pacific coast—on a bicycle. Armed with a revolver and only a vague plan to get through the months ahead, he aims to end his depression one way or the other.

As spiritual forces wrangle for his soul, he pedals eastward across America. He meets Lauren Baumgartner—a younger adventurer with a vibrant spirit—and a band of zealots who confront his aversion to religion. Accompanying Doug are not only sunny days and the beauty of nature but also the perils of the road, fellow travelers with their own stories, and the hollow silence of solitary campsites playing host to unseen creatures of the night.

A jarring episode on a climb through a treacherous pass brings Doug face-to-face with life and death. Will Doug’s adventure deliver him from loneliness and lament . . . or hurtle him to an abrupt end?

 

Click here to get your copy!

Author Interview 

1. Do you set a plot or prefer going wherever an idea takes you? I
would characterize myself as a (seat of the) “pantser.” For The
Persistent Road, I had some structure because my protagonist was
following bicycle routes that I’m familiar with, settings into which I
could immerse the reader. I had a general idea of the themes I was
dealing with, but no firm plan how to get there. It was exciting to
see how God weaved together the themes, settings, and characters
into a plot people are finding satisfying.
2. What, according to you, is the hardest thing about writing? Finding
readers. And by that, I’m referring to marketing. Authors today,
even the traditionally published ones, need to wear many hats. In
some respects, that’s helpful because, once you learn the tasks and
the tools, you’re empowered. But there’s only so much time in the
day to grow a social media following with posts, to write articles and
newsletters for subscribers, to read other books and learn more
about the craft, to participate in writing groups and help other
authors, and to plan and execute live events. It’s a lot. Especially
for an indie author like me, who also takes care of the many
publishing details. That’s why it’s so refreshing when I sit down and
write something, to dive deep without the distraction of these other
necessities, the benefit of which can sometimes be hard to measure.
3. Do you pen down revelations and ideas as you get them, right then
and there? At my age, yes. If I don’t write these things down, they
may only have been fleeting thoughts. Most often, these revelations
come to me when I wake up in the morning. There’s a notepad and
pencil in my nightstand, and they’ve come to good use many times
during the writing and editing of The Persistent Road. I consider
these to be downloads from Above because they came to me
subconsciously. So I jot down the concepts, enough to remember,
and develop them when I’m back in the manuscript. When I read
them later as an integral part of the book, I knew those ideas
couldn’t have come from me.
4. Do you need to be in a specific place or room to write, or you can
just sit in the middle of a café full of people and write? I don’t work
well with noise. That’s why I sometimes relocate to the library or
close my office door at home, particularly when a deep dive is
imperative. Noise usually distracts my train of thought, unless I’m
so immersed in what I’m doing I can’t even hear it. That happens
sometime too, but I would rather avoid the clamor altogether.
5. Do bits of yourself/friends show up in your characters? I think my
character attributes and the ones I see through my relationships
can’t help but show up, because I carry a writing toolchest filled
with unique life experiences. But I also think our life history and our
attributes aren’t blatantly plagiarized but instead develop
subliminally. So often readers think that what comes out of an
author’s novel reflects the writer’s life. I had someone ask my wife if
I had a porn problem because one of my characters did. I’m glad to
say I don’t have a porn problem. But maybe I have a different
problem now, that of creating a persona in my writing that people
think is me but isn’t!


About the Author

After a thirty-year career in business, TIM BISHOP left his corporate treasurer position, married his dream girl, and embarked with her to parts unknown—on bicycles. Ten thousand miles later, the first-time newlyweds have written four books about their cycling adventures. Their devotional, Wheels of Wisdom, won four first-place book awards. Publishers Weekly dubbed it “a road map for life.”

Tim volunteers as a coach for a ministry that reaches people who are dealing with challenging life issues. He has written numerous articles for various Christian content providers and has been a part of three church plants. These faith experiences have given him an evangelist’s heart to reach people in creative ways.

A graduate of the University of Maine, a CPA, and a three-time Maine chess champion, Tim and his wife, Debbie, live in Middle Tennessee. Connect with him at TimBishopWrites.com or follow @TimBishopWrites on social media.

 

More from Tim

After three decades chained to a desk in corporate business, I didn’t expect to land here. But now, I’m an author with a debut novel! The road I traveled has been as circuitous as the ones my wife, Debbie, and I bicycled to cross America on our honeymoon. The author part makes sense: I exited corporate life with writing as a primary interest and at least one business book inside me. I also have a passion to share my faith. But a novel? From someone who hadn’t read them since high school?

 

I’ve since addressed my reading deficiency, but I would like to share with you how The Persistent Road came about.

 

Shortly after marrying in 2010, I joined Debbie as a hope coach to young people struggling with life. Our third bicycle odyssey, which we embarked on in 2014, was a fundraiser for the organization we volunteered for as coaches. No shortage of financial need there, and few people knew about the hidden gem of a service. Thus, TheHopeLine Tour came to be. We bicycled to our hearts’ content, blogged daily, and pitched our cause.

 

On day thirteen, things took an intense turn. A man in Richland, Oregon, spilled out his anger upon entering a restaurant. A religious sect at a campground the night before had cornered him with their preaching. We left that restaurant aghast. What had happened in the man’s life to make him so belligerent to matters of faith? The following day, we met him trying to pedal his heavy recumbent bicycle out of – all places – Hells Canyon.

 

We arrived home two months and three thousand miles later with a bevy of stories brimming with “God moments.” They breathed life into what would become Wheels of Wisdom. Yet that angry man’s screaming echoed in my mind. His unwitting cries for help became lesson 36 in our seeker’s devotional. I called it simply “Hells Canyon.”

 

My curiosity still wasn’t satisfied. What had happened to make this man react the way he did? And what became of him as he journeyed the perilous roads across America? The Persistent Road answers those questions!

 

I’ve since landed at another coaching service that welcomes all comers regardless of age. What I’ve learned as a coach and a long-distance traveler by bicycle saturates the pages of my novel. It’s just another example of God’s mysterious ways, of how He uses whatever He pours into us when we ride with Him.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, August 26

For the Love of Literature, August 27 (Author Interview)

The Book Club Network, August 28

Blossoms and Blessings, August 29 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 29

Texas Book-aholic, August 30

Cover Lover Book Review, August 31

Splashes of Joy, September 1 (Author Interview)

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 2

Adventures of a Travelers Wife, September 3 (Author Interview)

Becca Hope: Book Obsessed, September 4

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, September 5

Artistic Nobody, September 6 (Author Interview)

Blogging With Carol, September 6

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 7

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, September 8

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, Tim is giving away the grand prize package of a $100 Amazon gift card and a copy of The Persistent Road!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/27786/the-persistent-road-celebration-tour-giveaway

Sunday, August 27, 2023

"Legacy of Love" by Kathy Mills -- Author Interview

 

About the Book

Book: Legacy of Love

Author: Kathy Mills

Genre: Christian Nonfiction

Release Date: January 31, 2023

Legacy of Love is a heartfelt memoir that delves into the author’s personal journey of facing troubles and finding peace in the midst of adversity. Drawing from the powerful scripture of John 16:33, the author shares her experiences of praying for protection and blessings, only to realize that God’s answer may not always come in the way she expects.

When her husband Brad is diagnosed with cancer, the author’s faith is put to the test. She grapples with questions and doubts about God’s love, but eventually comes to understand that God’s presence and strength can be found even in the midst of difficulties. Through prayer and praise, she learns to rely on God in critical moments, discovering the true heart of God and experiencing His peace that surpasses all understanding.

Legacy of Love is a story of hope and courage, reminding readers that God’s love never wavers, even when faced with trials and tribulations. It encourages readers to shift their hearts from the temporal things of this world to the eternal love of God, and find peace in His unwavering presence. This memoir will inspire and uplift anyone who is going through challenges, reminding them that overcoming is possible through faith in God’s enduring love.

 

Click here to get your copy!

Author Interview 

Question #1. Who would you say inspired you the most in your life?
I would have to say my dad and my husband. My dad inspired me growing up and
as an adult thru his example, to be honest, reliable, kind, and to always do my best
even if others around me are or do none of these things. He was devoted to family
and friends. He was a man of faith in Jesus, and although he may not have quoted
scriptures, he spoke Jesus’ teachings. He encouraged me to go after my dreams and
supported my attempts; those that succeeded and even those that failed. I never
doubted his love. My husband had many of the same qualities as my dad. He was
a man of integrity. People knew if Brad said he would do something or be
somewhere, he was as good as his word. He loved me with such devotion it
sometimes took my breath away. He showed me through how he lived his life how
to trust, love, and depend on Jesus. His courage gave me courage. His faith
encouraged mine. Not only did Brad inspire me, but he also inspired hundreds, if
not thousands, of others who came to know him.
Question #2. Do you have a special writing area?
I have an office room with a comfortable chair and a desk with a desktop computer.
I prefer to write here but occasionally, I will write down ideas or thoughts on my
tablet while sitting in my living room.
Question #3. Do you have any writing quirks?
Well…I use to use a lot of those dot, dot, dots in my writing! I’ve since learned to
use them more sparingly, if at all. I’m not sure if this next thing is a quirk, but I
also like to find and share a scripture or famous quote that ties into my writing.
These two things often inspire the direction of my thoughts and clarify what I’m
sharing.
Question #4. Do you read much?
I read my bible every day. As for other books, I’ll read several in spurts and then
not for a while. While in the midst of a writing project, I rarely read other books.
Question #5. Anything else you'd like to share?
When writing my book Legacy of Love, I thought I was writing it more as a book
for my family members and a few close friends to read. It wasn’t until I was in the
editing phase that I realized this was a book for anyone who wants or needs to be
encouraged to hear how God is faithful in his love for us in life’s hardest times.
Although I share some of my most heartbreaking feelings in this book, I also share
how God met me in the midst of them and how faith in Jesus can change our
perspective and comfort us. It is my hope that this book will be remembered as one
that tells two love stories. The first one is of Brad and me. The second and most
important one is the love story of how God loves.


About the Author

Kathy Mills is a former Flight Attendant who started her flying career at age 19 and flew for nearly 33 years before retiring in 2005 with US Airways. Traveling is still one of her favorite things to do.

Kathy is a member of Kempsville Christian Church in Virginia Beach, Virginia, where her husband Brad served as their church’s worship minister until his death in 2008.

To those who know her best, she’s an eternity-minded daughter of the King, who loves to share her message that with Jesus, there is nothing this world can do to a child of God, that God can’t use to empower them to bring Glory to God.

 

More from Kathy

Comfort is found in God’s Love and Promises

My longing for more time with Brad is as strong today and will remain in me until I see Him again. I have not experienced one day since Brad’s death that I have not had at the least a moment (usually many moments) of longing for Brad to be with me still. I find comfort in knowing that God who knows my heart understands.

 

As Believers, we are blessed to have Jesus who understands firsthand the pain of separation that death presses into our souls. I have often felt Jesus sit alongside of me and just grieve with me when I am overcome. I believe Jesus hates death more than we do. I like knowing this. In fact, I need to know this; it comforts me. Our Father is always at work…and He has purposed for good to come from even the most heartbreaking losses. I would never say Brad’s death is good. Yet from the amazing and most gracious love of God, He lifts me up from my anguish and invites himself into my sorrow with His unique joy and transforms me.

 

God has brought good out of my sorrow. It took my sorrow for the good to be done. I wouldn’t have planned it this way, but I trust God’s plans more than I trust my ways. God will do no less with your sorrow. It’s one of His promises, and God keeps all His promises.

 

“He heals the brokenhearted. And binds up their wounds [healing their pain and comforting their sorrow].” Psalms 147:3 (AMP)

 

God’s love tells us this: I have my heart set on you.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, August 18

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, August 19 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 20

Texas Book-aholic, August 21

Splashes of Joy, August 22 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, August 22

Locks, Hooks and Books, August 23

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, August 24

Beauty in the Binding, August 25 (Author Interview)

The Book Club Network, August 26

Blossoms and Blessings, August 27 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, August 27

Cover Lover Book Review, August 28

Artistic Nobody, August 29 (Author Interview)

Lots of Helpers, August 30

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 31

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Kathy is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon Gift Card and a copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/27326/legacy-of-love-celebration-tour-giveaway

Friday, August 25, 2023

"Countdown" by Lynette Eason

 About the Book


A stalker who wants to finish what he started. A US Marshal who's vowed to protect his charge. And one woman who is determined to put the past in the past.


Flight paramedic Raina Price has been running so long it's hard to stop. To escape a dangerous stalker, she changed her name and disappeared, building a new life with the help of a friend from her time in juvie. It feels good to put her energies into saving people's lives, but because her stalker was never found, she's never stopped looking over her shoulder. And one can only run so far before the past finally catches up.

US Marshal Vincent Corelli's job is to hunt down fugitives and protect those who are assigned to him. When Raina is almost killed right in front of him, he vows to protect her at all costs--whether it's his job or not. Together they work to solve the mystery of Raina's past. But someone is out to make sure Raina doesn't live long enough to do it.

Countdown is the breathless conclusion to USA Today bestselling author Lynette Eason's thrilling Extreme Measures series.


My Thoughts

I enjoyed reading this book and getting Raina's story. It was fun to see the characters we've gotten to know from the other books in the series. I found the book to be well written and easy to read. There were unexpected twists and I did figure out some of Raina's past before it was revealed. I liked the characters and their interactions with each other. I look forward to reading more books by Lynette Eason.



About the Author

Award-winning, best-selling author, Lynette Eason writes for Harlequin's Love Inspired Suspense line and for Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group. Her books have hit the Publisher's Weekly, CBA and ECPA bestseller lists and have won numerous awards such as the prestigious Carol Award, the Selah, the Daphne, the IRCC award and more. Lynette is married, has two children, and lives in Greenville, SC.






"Countdown" is available in paperback:

  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Revell (August 1, 2023)
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Paperback ‏ : ‎ 304 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0800737369
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0800737368
  • Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 1.47 pounds
  • Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5.5 x 0.76 x 8.5 inches

and in Kindle edition:

  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0BLW8NVBG
  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Revell (August 1, 2023)
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ August 1, 2023
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • File size ‏ : ‎ 9881 KB
  • Text-to-Speech ‏ : ‎ Enabled


I got a free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and given voluntarily. No compensation was received for my review.


Monday, August 14, 2023

"Freedom in Friday Harbor" by Annee Jones - Author Interview

 

About the Book

Book: Freedom in Friday Harbor

Author: Annee Jones

Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance

Release Date: January 25, 2023

Will the 4th of July fireworks light the way to freedom from the past and perhaps the blossoming of new love for Summer and Ace in Friday Harbor? 

Seattle marketing specialist Summer Connelly welcomes the assignment to supervise the construction of a company float for the annual 4th of July parade in Friday Harbor, WA. Not only will it be a chance to prove her leadership skills to her boss, but an opportunity for a much-needed escape, especially since she hasn’t taken any time off since her divorce was finalized over a year ago.

Ace Lockhart works himself to the bone at his Portland contracting company, but something in his life feels off. When doctors tell him his elderly father has taken a turn for the worse, he heads to Friday Harbor to be with the old man, simply because no one else in the family will even speak to him.

As fate would have it, Summer’s plans for the parade look like they could go up in smoke before any fireworks are even set off. Can Ace be the ticket to light at the end of the tunnel? Will their days together lead to fireworks in more ways than one?

 

Click here to get your copy!

Author Interview 

1. Do you set a plot or prefer going wherever an idea takes you?
A bit of both – I always have a plot & start out with an outline. However,
during the course of writing my characters usually do things other than what
I’d planned, so I make adjustments.
2. What, according to you, is the hardest thing about writing?
Having enough time (I have a full-time job outside of writing)
3. What would you say is the easiest aspect of writing?
Coming up with ideas & characters!

4. Do you pen down revelations and ideas as you get them, right then
and there?
Yes, I always try to do this! In fact, I keep a notebook by my bed because
most of my ideas come to me while I’m supposed to be sleeping, lol.
5. Do you need to be in a specific place or room to write, or you can
just sit in the middle of a café full of people and write?
I have to be at home, alone in my office in order to focus!
6. When did it dawn upon you that you wanted to be a writer?
Probably before I was born. It’s something that God put on my heart for as
long as I can remember.

About the Author

Annee Jones is an international bestselling author of romance, fantasy, and mystery. She is passionate about writing stories where dreams come true and love wins!

Professionally, Annee works as a disability counselor where she is honored to help her clients navigate through complex medical and legal systems while rediscovering their wholeness in Spirit.

Subscribe to Annee’s newsletter to stay up to date on new releases, sneak peeks, author parties, and exclusive giveaways: https://www.anneejones.com/newsletter

 

More from Annee

Friday Harbor is a real place located on San Juan Island off the coast of the Pacific Northwest:  https://www.visitsanjuans.com/friday-harbor

I visited Friday Harbor several years ago and loved its quaint charm & the people I met who live there year-round. My visit was the inspiration for this book.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, August 2

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, August 3 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 3

Texas Book-aholic, August 4

Artistic Nobody, August 5 (Author Interview)

Locks, Hooks and Books, August 6

Guild Master, August 7 (Author Interview)

She Lives To Read, August 8

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, August 9

The Book Club Network, August 10

For the Love of Literature, August 11 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 12

For Him and My Family, August 13

Blossoms and Blessings, August 14 (Author Interview)

Sara Beth Wiliams, August 14

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, August 15

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Annee is giving away the grand prize package of an opportunity to name a character in a future book and a copy of the eBook!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/26f4d/freedom-in-friday-harbor-celebration-tour-giveaway