A Warm Welcome to Patty Froese!

I'm delighted to introduce you to Patty Froese. Patty recently entered my world as a writer friend and I've quickly grown to admire her passion for the stories she writes! Her latest release is one that touches a chord in my heart because it deals with the topic of marriage. 

Let's find out more about her book, Legally Wed, as well as her thoughts on its creation:

Legally Wed was inspired by friends.

I put it out there on my Facebook fanpage, asking what my readers wanted to see me write. The feedback was unanimous--these women wanted to see a story about marriage, a story that started after the "I do" and dealt with real married people.

And that was the beginning of this novel, which follows two couples: one that was supposed to be divorced, and one that was supposed to be perfect.

Marriage is hard work--there's  no way around it. Falling in love is the easy part, but staying in love and growing closer and closer over the years involves careful decisions. We don't always make the right decisions, and sometimes one side of that marriage is more committed than the other. Life is never ideal and picture perfect simply doesn't exist.

So what happens when your husband leaves you for the brassy secretary? And what happens when a marriage you thought you'd put behind you ends up being not-so-over after all?

I'm thankful for the women who communicate with me while I write. Not only do they keep me company, but they inspire some great writing!

Come by and check out my latest novel, Legally Wed. I don't think you'll be disappointed.

BLURB:


When Rich McConaughey comes back to town, divorce papers in hand, he’s in for more than he bargained for. Lisa Young, the woman he was married to for six months, hasn’t changed a bit. His mother has though… she’s gone from matronly to meow, and his father has taken off with the secretary. Does anything last anymore?

Lisa Young feels chained to the hardware store her family has run for generations. How can she tell her father that she hates the family business? When Rich walks back into her store asking her to finalize a divorce she thought was behind her, she thinks that the answer is to sign on the dotted line and move on. Except, Rich isn’t making it so easy… and God has other plans.

For better or for worse, when you’re legally wed, things can get complicated.

BIO:

Patty Froese lives in central Canada where the winters are long and cold--giving her excellent excuse to stay in and write without guilt. She's a tea drinker, a novel writer, an adoring wife and mom, and she's pretty sure she's a British person born in a shivering, Canadian body. She loves rain, royalty, pretty knick knacks and three square meals a day. No dieting here!

If you'd like to find her online, come by her blog: http://pattyfroese.com. She's also on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pattyfroese, and whenever someone gives her a new like or follows her blog, she sighs in delight.

Legally Wed is her ninth novel to be released.

PURCHASE LINK:

http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-371/Legally-Wed-Patty-Froese/Detail.bok

Congratulations on the release, Patty! I can't wait to grab a copy!

Mosey on Down to Heart's Crossing Ranch With Tanya Hanson!

Please welcome back to the blog a treasured friend and multi-dimensional writer, Tanya Hanson. Tanya writes in a number of genres, but always with a flair, and passion, for all things western (and all things cowboy!) She's got something for everyone - what's not to love?

Let's find out about Tanya, her writing, and her latest release, book six in the Heart's Crossing Ranch series - Angel Child!

First off, Tanya, what inspired you to write this book? What drove its creation?

It’s the sixth in a series. When I was asked for synopses for stories about the eight siblings of a Colorado ranch, I knew one of them would feature a little boy who is challenged by Angelman Syndrome, as is my godson.

I think that's what so appealing about your writing, you've witnessed and/or lived through a number of the circumstances you depict in your stories. They're so real and engaging! What’s a typical writing day like for you?

After a career teaching high school English, where I knew every second of every day where I’d be, I now enjoy being a free spirit LOL. Hubby is retired, and he still likes to hang out with me, even doing mundane things like grocery shopping or gardening. I nearly lost him to testicular cancer, so time with him is extra-precious. When the weather’s nice, I take my laptop outside and write on the patio, usually in the afternoon. I am soooo not a morning person.

When did you realize you were called to be a writer?

I think I’ve been writing stories in my head ever since I learned words. But the key moment was reading Little Women when I was eight years old. I knew then I’d someday be a writer. However, I waited far too long to try--until the kids went off to college. Sheesh.

What are you currently reading?

After seeing David McCullough interviewed on Sixty Minutes recently, I realized I need to finish John Adams! After that, it’ll be time for Finding Home. I so love London, Christmas, and you! It’s like the trifecta!

Oh, you sweet thing - what a wonderful compliment coming from someone I respect and admire so much! Here's a toughie: What’s item number one on your bucket list?

Watching an eagle fly. I’ve seen two wounded eagles close up at a rescue zoo, and nesting in ricks along the highway in Wyoming during our city slicker wagon train trip, but I want to see one soaring through the clouds.

That sounds awesome!! What’s your favorite comfort food?

Banana bread. My gramma made it best. She is my personal hero, a truly good woman.

What's coming up next for you?

Western historical romance. I am finishing two series I have going at The Wild Rose Press. I love the Old West setting and have Kansas hometeaders in my blood. MyAncestry.com is going to keep me busy--my resolution for 2013. Then I will probably try self-publishing with a full-length western historical inspirational I’m finishing up.

You're a busy lady - and we'll have lots to look forward to! Yay! Where and how can folks connect with you?

www.tanyahanson.com

www.petticoatsandpistols.com
www.goodchristiancowgirl.com
And my Facebook Author Page: http://tinyurl.com/ak5xqb5

A web-friend is helping me design www.goodchristiancowgirls.com [withgirls plural] so maybe I’ll garner a group of western gals to follow me someday!

I'll be the first in line, Tanya! Now, let's take a closer look at Angel Child - those Martin brothers - they sure are spectacular!

 

ANGEL CHILD BLURB:

Determined to get her life back on track, Mary Grace Gibson takes on a substitute-teaching job, grateful for the room and board offered at Hearts Crossing Ranch. The bustling family life helps her heal after abandonment by her ex. But her little boy’s serious disabilities make her cautious about revealing her secrets to anybody. Even Scott Martin, the handsome cowboy who’s fast stealing her heart.

Her former student now grown up, cowboy and graphic artist Scott Martin is instantly drawn to the beautiful single mom. She’s had some hard luck but never let go of her faith. Their age gap doesn’t fret him, and their kisses ignite his love. But as they fall for each other, Mary Grace’s lack of trust in him shatters his feelings, for he’s been down that broken trail before.

 

PURCHASE LINK:

http://www.pelicanbookgroup.com/ec/angel-child

Tanya, congratulations on the release and God’s blessings on all that’s to come!! So glad you stopped by today!

Meet Sharon Srock & The Women of Valley View

Sharon Srock lives with her husband, Larry, and two dogs in Rural Oklahoma. She is a mother, grandmother, and Sunday School teacher. Sharon has one and three-quarters jobs and writes in her spare time. Her favorite hobby is traveling with her grandchildren. She is a member of the ACFW and currently serves as treasurer for her local chapter. Sharon’s writing credits include numerous poems and short stories published in science fiction fanzines.

How much of yourself do you write into your characters?

I don’t, intentionally, write any of me into my characters. That doesn’t mean you won’t find a little piece of me in all of the women. Callie teaches Sunday school and loves her guacamole, Terri is looking for God’s will in her life and arguing the whole way, Pam is learning lessons in forgiveness. Yep, there I am.

When did you first discover that you were a writer?

Believe it or not, I went to bed one night, a normal person, and woke up the next morning determined to write a book. I know, now, where that came from. It was more than a little weird at the time.

Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.

I love a good courtroom drama. Fantasy when it’s well done. By well done, I mean it has to completely draw me into a different world. Mysteries, and Romantic suspense are devoured at my house like chocolate covered cherries.

What's the best writing advice you've ever received?

To find a good critique partner and learn to work with them. I have the best one in the world. I'm thankful beyond words that God matched us up when He did.

How do you keep your sanity in this crazy fast paced world of ours?

I guess I’m a product of our environment. I like being busy. Even on a vacation I have to consciously tell myself to slow down and enjoy the moment. Sanity…I’m a writer, that option took a hike a few years back.

What is the accomplishment of which you are most proud?

I’m going to assume you don’t mean raising terrific daughters.  Really? This book. Not just for the validation or a sense of “I can really do this”. But because I feel like it represent me, finally finding God’s place for me.

What is your favorite food?

I have two rules when I cook. If it’s sweet add chocolate. If it isn’t sweet add cheese.

What’s item number one on your bucket list?

I want to go to Australia. God willing, in a couple of years, I'll be in a position to do that. 2013 in a cruise with my youngest grandaughter. The last of the grandchild vacations. 2014 is the Alaskan cruise I'm dying to take. Both great things to look forward to, but Australia...That's the grand prize on my to do list.

Three dire circumstances. Three desperate prayers. One miracle to save them all.

Callie Stillman is drawn to the evasive girl who’s befriended her granddaughter, but the last time Callie tried to help a child, her efforts backfired. Memories of the tiny coffin still haunt her.

Samantha and Iris Evans should be worried about homework, not whether they can pool enough cash to survive another week of caring for an infant while evading the authorities.

Steve Evans wants a second chance at fatherhood, but his children are missing. And no one seems to want to help the former addict who deserted his family.

For Steve to regain the relationship he abandoned, for his girls to receive the care they deserve, Callie must surrender her fear and rely on God to work the miracle they all need.

EXCERPT:

Callie Stillman dabbed raindrops from her face with a linen napkin as Benton dodged a server with a loaded tray and took his place across from her. She smiled into her husband’s blue eyes and reached across to wipe water from his beard. “We’ll both have pneumonia if we don’t dry off soon.”

Benton took the napkin and finished the job. “I’ve been told the food is very good. A few sniffles should be worth it.”

Callie’s gaze roamed the room. “It’s…” Recognition slammed into her chest, forcing the air from her lungs. The man crossing the room behind her husband nodded and continued to his table. Was that the bailiff? Do you swear to tell the truth… She gulped for breath and fought the familiar darkness that crowded the edges of her vision.

Callie ran a finger around her collar, tugging the neck of the blouse away from skin suddenly dewed with a fine film of sweat. Too hot. She took a sip of water, dismayed at the tremor in her hand as she lifted the glass to her lips. Not here, not tonight. Callie closed her eyes and practiced the breathing techniques she’d learned over the last six months. In through her nose, hold for a few seconds, and out through her mouth. Concentrate only on the current step in the process, the next breath. The tightness in her chest began to fade away. Thank you, Jesus. She raised her water again and held the cold glass to her flushed cheek.

Leave your e-mail to be entered in a sensational gift basket giveaway. One comment equals one entry! The winner will be drawn November 19th! Good luck!! Also, if you'd like a PDF featuring excerpts from Callie and her second release in the Women of Valley View series, Terri, please click RIGHT HERE - it's sure to be an enticing treat.


PURCHASE LINKS:

PELICAN BOOK GROUP   l   AMAZON   l   BARNES & NOBLE

FIND SHARON:

Visit her BLOG at: http://www.womenofvalleyview.blogspot.com/
Connect with her on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/SharonSrock#!/SharonSrock
Follow her on Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/SharonSrock

Congratulations, Sharon, and God's blessings on the release of Callie! Thanks for joining me today!