The sweeping countryside of Arizona Territory in 1871 marvelously sets the stage for this first novel from Regina Scott’s “American Wonders Collection.” From beginning to end, I was delighted. This is another wonder-filled adventure by this author, but that is no surprise to me. I appreciate and esteem Regina’s storytelling ability quite highly. She works hard to entertain and encourage all-the-while she makes the story flow with believability and tension that turns pages. Her characters have depth and are likable, engaging, and perfect for the challenges they meet.

I certainly would like to see more of Meg Pero and Captain Ben Coleridge as well as Dot and Hank Newcomb. Regina’s vivid descriptions are necessary to the story thread and quite enjoyable. I found myself smiling a lot as I read this novel. Becoming acquainted with her characters who were dealing with immense difficulties and trials that would test any man or woman’s fortitude—kept me engaged in the adventure.  

I’m grateful that this is the first of the American Wonders Collection, and I’m already looking forward to the next book in this series. Especially since there is a sneak peek first chapter for her second novel. I wonder when that is coming out! Revell provided a lovely cover which matches the quality of this story, a novel I’m proud to promote. Thank you, Regina for the free book and I am offering my honest opinion and impressions of this wonderful novel.
 
QUESTIONS FOR REGINA:

Your adventures are so unique and positively interesting! What or who inspired this series?
I started out to write a story about a lady photographer in the Old West, and I wanted her to shoot something grand, amazing. What more amazing than the Grand Canyon? My publisher suggested that I use the story to start a series of books set in the history of our national parks. A Distance Too Grand is the first. Nothing Short of Wondrous, out next October, will be the second. It is set in Yellowstone National Park. And the third book (as yet untitled) will be set on Mt. Rainier.

Your descriptions were so fresh and realistic, did you hike or camp out close to this location?
I visited the Grand Canyon a couple years ago with my family, but I didn’t get to do much more than walk the rim and marvel. But there are dozens and dozens of pictures online plus first-hand accounts from the time period. But that all together, and it seems I came close to describing the amazing vistas!

If you did visit, camp, or hike in the “Arizona Territory” did you take photos? If so, will you share one with us?
Delighted! Though I am not nearly as good a photographer as Meg.

​








What a WONDERFUL photo, Regina!  Thank you for sharing!  :) Beautiful!  

Do you have a fun or interesting fact about this location and time that you didn’t get to include in A DISTANCE TOO GRAND?
I briefly mentioned it in the book, but the landscape cameras of the time were massive, like two feet square! The bigger the picture, the bigger the camera you needed.

Did you find those cooking tips that Dot used, or were some handed down? You have my curiosity awakened!
My oldest son is a Sous Chef in Seattle. I took the information I found about Army supplies plus what I’d learned would have been in season naturally at that time and asked him what Dot could have cooked. He helped me come up with a repertoire for the survey.

Is there anything you would like to share with your readers concerning your theme or your experience while writing this book? (Or an experience that led to your writing this book.)
It’s the 100 anniversary this year of the founding of Grand Canyon National Park. If you have a chance to visit, I highly recommend it! And if not, I hope you get a chance to go out near you and enjoy the changing of the Seasons. Nothing draws me closer to our Creator than being out in His creation.

On your website, I enjoyed the historical elements that you posted on your blog page. http://www.reginascott.com/
Thank you! I have more information about the stereographs that Meg specializes in. Go to http://www.reginascott.com/adistancetoogrand.html and scroll down to the bottom, then click on the link.

Regina Scott's bio:
Regina Scott is the author of more than 45 historical romances set in Regency, England; pioneer Seattle; and the Old West. A stickler for getting it right, she’s sailed on a tall ship, driven four-in-hand, and learned to fence, all in the name of research. She and her husband of more than 30 years live in the South Puget Sound area, on the way to Mt. Rainier.

Simply another wonderful review with you, Regina! Thank you for your time and whimsical answers! You always make it fun!

 
1871

This exquisite, richly woven tale shares Raina’s journey cloaked with unfathomable discoveries. Raina is given an invitation that if accepted will change her life forever—as well as those whom she comes to know. Victor Eugene Prenderast, Sully—who stole Raina’s heart long before The Maiden Faire’s terrible shipwreck drowned her hopes, and the elusive Countess of Enderly, all make a profound impact upon the choices and decisions Raina will make.

The author, Joanna, skillfully unwraps the hearts of her characters and places them within the boundaries of this hauntingly beautiful and dangerous story. The stakes are high and the mysteries and intriguing characters add depth which latched onto my curiosity and wouldn’t allow me to break free. (I’m ever so glad to listen to Kindle while attending to the mundane.) This is a tale where influential people, beauty, fear and identity merge and flow with passion and grace that beckoned this reader to write this review and share the good news about another pleasing and worthy tale to read or listen too. I will gladly sequester time for other novels that Joanna Davidson Politano will write!
I highly recommend this story because this author also unwrapped my heart to want to find out more about Raina and cheer her on! Let me take a moment to politely beg for more of the same type of story from this writer. There it is, all said. Joanna’s stories are welcome here!
 
Questions for Joanna:
​
Was Rothburne Abbey a real place in England?
It was based on real abbeys in England, mostly Forde Abbey. I took bits and pieces from various places and put them together to make an abbey that truly charmed me.

What a unique and fascinating plot—how did you come up with the idea for this tale?
Thank you! The idea has been percolating since I was a young kid and my mom and I were watching the news. Princess Di had just passed away and I was heartbroken. My mom said she wondered if she'd actually escaped the media and gone to live on a deserted island for the rest of her life, and I wondered--would she still be Princess Di? Would she be royalty? Would she have the ability to be as kind? It all spiraled from there!

Have you visited 1800s abbeys before?
I visited all sorts of places when I visited the UK a few years ago--most are now ruins, but the cool thing about them is that you can still see the layout of every room. It's all there on the ground like a live blueprint. I got a sense for how things were set up, and how they lived. Fascinating trip!

When did you get the writhing bug?
My first book was written at age 5 and was called, Moving Day. You can guess what was going on in my life. Honestly, I think I caught the novel-writing bug when I found myself in a caretaking situation, mostly homebound every day. My grandma had been slowly unraveling for me the story of her parents, how they came to America as children, and the surprising family secrets they found when they arrived. That book just poured out of me, then I was addicted to storytelling.

What is your favorite snack to enjoy when writing or plotting?
Cereal! I know it's crazy, but I love to munch on handfuls of cereal while I write. It's my favorite "sweet."

Did Widow McCall remind you of anyone as you wrote her?
Mostly she came from a woman who rented my family some cabins when I was a young kid. That delightful little cackle and clipped voice always stayed with me--as well as her quirky advice. It's those really unique characters who take up residence in your mind and percolate into something fictional that you can drop into a story.

Do you have another novel adventure in the works?
Always! I just turned a book into my editor that features a lost love letter, and the spinster who finds it and decides to return it--if she can figure out who wrote it. After that comes a book set in the Victorian ballet.

Where do you want your readers to connect with you?  
I have a prayer spot on my webpage, jdpstories.com, as well as a newsletter signup. I also love to see readers on my facebook author page, https://www.facebook.com/joannadavidsonpolitano/.

 
 

Thank you, Joanna! I loved the answers that you gave for this interview! I look forward to reading your next book. I have two other books that you have written and I can't wait to dig into those also!

​Blessings always! Sue

Readers’ Favorite—AWARD FINALIST—ALIEN INVASION

What a fun story! I purchased this book for my granddaughter. While I’m waiting for her to get older so that we can read it together—I sampled the pages—kept reading and enjoyed the whole experience!

MYSTERY AT POINT BEACH, ALIEN INVASION is Dominic’s third adventure at Point Beach State Forest, and yet this is a fresh story with an interesting spin to it. Sailor and Forest—important friends from the first and second books—are there to add assistance as well as their humor! I love the situations the kids find themselves in. The mysteries are believable and keep me guessing.

The characters are so different and entertaining that I find myself laughing out loud.

​I like all of the main characters that I’ve already mentioned along with GB, Windsong, Ranger Rick, and one I’d met in person—Ollie. I find that I actually learn about stuff as I’m enjoying how the mystery builds. Also, I live in the area and learned about the local Sputnikfest event. Now, I want to make it a point to attend this unique-to-our-area festival. I’ve never stayed at our local Point Beach Park either, but it does sound like an exciting place to camp and share summer memories. If I ever do, I will be sure to look for the famous Nimrod. For if Nimrod is there, I’m sure that Dominic and friends might possibly be solving another fun mystery. Thank you, Kate and Deborah Ann, for another fantastic and entertaining story of merit! I’m glad to have read this adventure, and I do highly recommend this book to other readers.

QUESTIONS FOR KATE & DEBORAH ANN:

Dominic is a real person! I know this from attending one of your book signings. Which story in this series is his favorite?
DEBBY: Dominic likes all of the books. He’s looking forward to more adventures from his namesake.
​
You have such interesting and different mystery topics in each book. How did you come up with the “Alien Invasion” focus for this book?
KATE: I thought about the reading audience, and what keeps kids entertained at that age—that’s where the aliens come in. Since the books each include local history, I also drew off of an eye- witness account involving a spacecraft spotted near Point Beach, and a newspaper article about a green meteor that landed in Lake Michigan a few years ago.  It’s fascinating story material—even for adults.

Do your children influence your writing and topics?
KATE: Definitely. They give me a pocket full of insight as to what interests young people, how they talk, and react which I can then apply to the main characters’ personalities. Also, it helps that I can go to some of my son’s favorite books and study the writing techniques used by other authors for that age level.

Do you have another story idea brewing?
KATE: Just one??? LOL Right now, we’ve been approached by someone who is encouraging us to turn book 1, Sundae Wars, into a play that would be performed locally. Other than that, we were contemplating a story that revolves around the “ghost” of a lumberjack for book 4.

Without revealing who Ollie is, may I ask whose idea it was to include him? (By the way, I was touched when I read his part in the story.)
KATE: Debby had a great idea for the mystery portion of this book, which involved this additional “character.”  We chose the name Ollie, because he was a “Big” part of one of our fellow writer’s life, and she missed him very much. He was one of a kind!
Where can your readers find you online? Do you have fun activities for your readers there?

DEBBY: We’re online at Facebook.com/MysteryatPointBeach and on our website: www.MysteryatPointBeach.com. Be sure to check out the fun game our web designer created!

​Mystery at Point Beach: Alien Invasion is a 2019 Readers' Favorite Finalist in the Children - Mystery genre!

Author's new book receives a warm literary welcome.
Readers' Favorite is one of the largest book review and award contest sites on the Internet. They have earned the respect of renowned publishers like Random House, Simon & Schuster, and Harper Collins, and have received the "Best Websites for Authors" and "Honoring Excellence" awards from the Association of Independent Authors. They are also fully accredited by the BBB (A+ rating), which is a rarity among Book Review and Book Award Contest companies.
 
You can learn more about Kate Jungwirth and Deborah Ann Erdmann and "Mystery at Point Beach" at https://readersfavorite.com/book-review/mystery-at-point-beach/1 where you can read reviews and the author’s biography, as well as connect with the author directly or through their website and social media pages.

 
​DiAnn Mills use of deep characterization, thoughts, emotions, and motives of the main characters—Agents Leah Riesel and Jon Colbert—securely pinned me to “Fatal Strike’s pages. I’ve raved about every one of DiAnn’s novels that I’ve read, but she has plunged into a new level that I appreciate and celebrate! Thank you, DiAnn, for offering this novel to me for my honest review. You wrote on the inside cover, “Expect an Adventure,” which you delivered with excellence.

I felt heat burdening Galveston and Houston Texas as descriptive local countryside and shoreline scenes aided the plot. Local restaurants and businesses etc. became realistic as the character’s sweating and or other reactions moved the suspense forward. DiAnn lead my imagination easily through the layers of conflict and anticipation. The support characters and antagonists were varied, mysterious, and kept me guessing until the very end. Okay, I’ll admit it, I did think the main bad person was a different character. What a fun puzzle of a story with characters I enjoyed getting to know. The preverbal feeling of being that fly-on-the-wall—observing interactions as the story progressed—followed me throughout this adventuresome read.

FBI agents have a difficult and dangerous occupation, and this novel helped me to become aware of their sacrifice and courage. They engage in emotionally charged emergencies and gang-related activities which I can’t imagine facing. Strong, dedicated, and focused agents are willing to put in long hours to conquer threatening situations. Yet, how many are appreciated for their full worth?

Known for rigorous research—DiAnn spends quality time with FBI, border control, or whatever occupation employs her heroine. Her stories shine with authenticity. Thank you, DiAnn, for taking the time to become familiar with those who serve our country with selfless tenacity. In my estimation, you exude that same tenaciousness with the written word, exploration of hot issues, as well as those who confront very real danger.
​
“Fatal Strike” is a highly recommended suspense story because quality writing and interesting subject matter keep me intrigued. I suggest that you not wait for Christmas shopping to include this in your must-read list. “Fatal Strike” is an emotionally impacting and exhilarating tale of bravery, intelligence, and synergy that burned my midnight candle until the very last word was read.
 
Questions for DiAnn:

Bravo, DiAnn, for a perfect title for this unique story of a gang using venom to murder and spread fear. How did you come up with this idea?  I wanted a different method for the villain to eliminate victims—no fingerprints, bullets or a gun. Snake venom injected into the heart worked.

Did this story idea wake you, sending your active imagination soring in the middle of the night? Did you jot down story ideas by nightlight?  A number of factors played into the storyline for Fatal Strike. 1) The idea of using injections of rattlesnake venom. 2) A female sniper who longed for reconciliation with her family. 3) A hero who was running from guilt. 4) A setting that is normally seen as a peaceful, a vacation resort. Thoughts rolled through my mind until I had to write the story.

Do you have a theme message in this story especially crafted for your readers?  Yes! Adoption provides a sense of belonging, but we all choose our behavior. Throughout the story, adoption is a thread that binds the characters.

How much time did you spend with FBI agents to come up with these characters?  I interviewed a FBI SWAT member who was also a hostage negotiator. I also spent considerable time researching a sniper’s mindset, what skills are required, and how a sniper processes after a mission.

Can you tell us about your next story venture?  The title is Airborne. An FBI agent boards a plane for Salzburg, Austria for a much-needed vacation and to make decisions about her future. Her husband has asked for a divorce, and he doesn’t know she’s three months pregnant. Two hours into the flight, several people on board begin showing evidence of a deadly virus. 

How do you wish for your readers to contact you? 
My website has all my social media, contact, and blog sign up information. I love hearing from readers! https://diannmills.com/ diann@diannmills.com

Author Bio:
DiAnn Mills is a bestselling author who believes her readers should expect an adventure. She weaves memorable characters with unpredictable plots to create action-packed, suspense-filled novels. DiAnn believes every breath of life is someone’s story, so why not capture those moments and create a thrilling adventure?
 
Her titles have appeared on the CBA and ECPA bestseller lists; won two Christy Awards; and been finalists for the RITA, Daphne Du Maurier, Inspirational Readers’ Choice, and Carol award contests.
DiAnn is a founding board member of the American Christian Fiction Writers, a member of Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, Mystery Writers of America, Sisters in Crime, and International Thriller Writers. She is the director of the Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writers Conference, Mountainside Marketing Retreat, and the Mountainside Novelist Retreat with social media specialist Edie Melson where she continues her passion of helping other writers be successful. She speaks to various groups and teaches writing workshops around the country.
DiAnn has been termed a coffee snob and roasts her own coffee beans. She’s an avid reader, loves to cook, and believes her grandchildren are the smartest kids in the universe. She and her husband live in sunny Houston, Texas.
DiAnn is very active online and would love to connect with readers on: Facebook, Twitter, or any of the social media platforms listed at diannmills.com

​

Glouestershire 1816

Carolyn Miller has captivated my rapt attention yet again with this first of A PROMISE OF HOPE series.

Heartsore, Miss Catherine Winthrope’s world tipped its foundations and caused her very lifestyle to be redefined, relocated, and raked over by grief; which equates to a story that I would love to see turned into a quality movie.

The hero, Johathan Carlew, is such a serious and worthy hero. These characters are unique and diverse and have to face the challenge of forgiving when they both have deep offences to overcome. I have enjoyed their journey, the humor sprinkled within the scenes, and the witty conversations that made me smile! I encourage you to give this author a try!

With Carolyn’s talent for creating believable characters whom many will identify with and a plot that won’t let me put my book down—I acknowledge this fresh series will be one that remains on my book shelf. I’d read the novel earlier within the year when I had pink eye and it grieved me to have to throw that book away. I downloaded the Kindle version and I’ve been enjoying this novel again—so very soon for me to revisit a story when I have a stack of unread novels waiting—yet I’m still enjoying the character’s journey as though it were a first read. Carolyn displays a beautiful writing style and instinct for creating a Regancy world that offers enough details and historical information to adorn the challenges and interactions of her characters. I am a reader who will gladly watch for Carolyn’s next novels, for these will be the sort I will purchase posthaste and give as gifts!
 
QUESTIONS FOR CAROLYN:
Your stories are diverse and interesting. How long did you play with these characters to get them just right?
 
I knew Catherine Winthrop needed to have different personality qualities to Lavinia Ellison’s forthrightness, and Lady Charlotte’s headstrong ways, and couldn’t be too similar to Clara DeLancey, either.  I wanted Jonathan Carlew to be a different type of hero to my previous heroes, which is why he’s a man of business, with some questions over his heritage.
 
Did you model any of these characters after someone from the movies or real life or imagination?
 
Winning Miss Winthrop is a bit like my homage to my (equal) favorite Jane Austen novel Persuasion. Catherine Winthrop is not dissimilar to Anne Elliot,  with her quiet, somewhat retiring ways, who is often overlooked by others.
I see Jonathan Carlew as being quite similar to Persuasion’s Captain Wentworth, in looks and temperament. For his appearance and deep voice and demeanor I was also inspired by one of my best friend’s husbands. Of course, he might not see himself that way!
 
I’m thankful for your including past characters! This is always fun to see how they are getting on with life in the imaginary world. Is it difficult for you to limit the amount of involvement with previous characters?
 
I want each story to be a standalone, so a reader can enjoy the story without feeling like they are missing much. But it’s also nice for those who started at the beginning of my first Regency Brides series with The Elusive Miss Ellison to catch up with some of their favorite characters and see what’s happening in their lives these days. So while there are a few mentions of other characters we’ve met before, this is a new story with the focus squarely on Catherine and Jonathan. But I hope readers of my other series enjoy catching up with some old friends!
 
What is the theme in this story that you want your readers to realize the most?
 
One of the key themes is that of trusting God, that He’s worth believing in even when all hope seems lost, and trusting that He has good plans for His children, even when we can’t see what He’s doing. I’ve seen this in my own life, and I hope readers are encouraged by this too.
 
Do you picture these characters and the locations when you write them? (I sure do picture them when I’m reading them.😊)
 
Yes! It always helps to have a sense of where and what I want readers to see. (And I’m so glad!) I use Pinterest to help provide clarity – unless it’s a film I might watch several times to help get in the mood!
 
Have you been to Bath and seen any homes and interesting places that you have included in this story?
 
Yes! I was very blessed with the opportunity to visit Bath in 2015, and loved my (all too brief!) time there. Pretty much every place in Bath that I mentioned in Winning Miss Winthrop is a place I have personally visited. In fact, on my website I have a ton of photos from my visit so readers can see exactly what “A Day in Bath” might look like. Check it out at www.carolynmillerauthor.com
 
 
Do you have any news to tell your readers?
 
Yes! This past week I’ve just finished writing my first draft for a Christmas novella which will be part of a Regency-era Christmas novella collection releasing from Kregel next year – woohoo! Next week I’ll get back to writing the first book in my new Regency series which will launch in 2021. The series is titled ‘The Wallflowers,’ about single, slightly older women of the Regency era and the challenges they faced. I’m also looking to dip my toe into the contemporary market one day soon, too!
 
What are the books in the rest of this series called?
 
Winning Miss Winthrop is the first book in my second series Regency Brides: A Promise of Hope. The next two books in this series are Miss Serena’s Secret (about Miss Winthrop’s artistic, younger sister) and The Making of Mrs. Hale, which looks at what happens after an elopement!
 
Do you have another series ready to launch?
 
This year (2019) has seen the launch of my third Regency series, Regency Brides: The Daughters of Aynsley, which features three sisters. The first of these books came out in March this year and is titled A Hero for Miss Hatherleigh, which looks at Caroline Hatherleigh (the eldest daughter of the Viscount Aynsley) and her experiences hunting for fossils with an undergroundologist!

The second book in this series came out recently and is titled Underestimating Miss Cecilia, and explores what happens after the prodigal son returns (and also includes a country house party!) which has received lots of lovely reviews.
​
And the third releases in November and is a super fun romp (set in Scotland!) and is titled Misleading Miss Verity. Just got to say this is a really fun book!
 
Where do you wish for your readers to connect with you?

www.carolynmillerauthor.com
https://www.facebook.com/CarolynMillerAuthor/
https://twitter.com/CarolynMAuthor
https://www.pinterest.com.au/camillering/
https://www.instagram.com/carolynmillerauthor/

Thank you Carolyn for yet again another fine, fun and informative interview! I feel as though I'm getting to know you better with each new connection! I'm ever so glad to be blessed by your gift of story! God's Richest Blessings and Joy to you, Carolyn! 

A precious friend of mine, Amy Wiener, shares such love and joy when she talks about relating to children. So much of our own significance is patterned into adult thinking and relating to others from our childhood, is it not? Amy's amazing sweetness and wisdom with children is too awesome not to consider, so I asked her to write something for my website. May you be an inspired blessing to children from this day forward. 

This guest post from Amy Wiener:

Value of quality time with children . . . .
 
As we all know, time goes way too fast! Every year seems faster and faster. Getting kids ready for school, running to after school activities, homework, dinner, play and off to bed . . . where do we fit in just being with children before they are adults? How do we value our time with children in our lives and raise them to feel valued in our society?
 
Even though I don’t have my own children, I’m a teacher who works with children all day. Kids are precious! In the early childhood years, most likely they don’t remember what they’ve learned. They remember if they liked their teacher or not, or had fun with their friends. If you like children, chances are you will naturally have quality time with them.

It’s important to listen, celebrate, and be sad with them in their adventures of growing up.

It’s important to listen, celebrate, and be sad with them in their adventures of growing up. Children are impressionable. They’re like sponges soaking everything in. There are many ways that can influence them such as; friends, T.V., movies, social media, sports, music, books, food, teachers/coaches, and hopefully family and Jesus! Spending time and being involved with them throughout their whole childhood will help them feel loved and connected to people. As a Christian, I feel it’s important to instill Biblical, everlasting truths in them. God is always with us and is faithful.
 
Whether you are a parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle, or a good neighbor, quality time with children might include: read the Bible and pray, go to church/Sunday School, attend activities they are involved in or ask them about it if you can’t make it, eat dinner at the dinner table with everyone-if possible, limit social media or use it as a reward, play with them, say, “I love you,” hug, exercise politeness, communicate about problems and forgive if needed, take pictures, and laugh! Just taking time and being with children is valuable because they will never forget it!
 
 
Amy Wiener
Children’s Author and Teacher
aw3dance@aol.com
https://www.facebook.com/amy.wiener.58
abw3 Amy W (Instagram)

​London, England, July 1812
 
While Matthew and Charlotte Batemen were away, Ivy Batemen and her sister and Miss Thorn attended a soiree that would change the lives of so many. Someone trapped Ivy and the Marquess of Kendall in the library with a candlestick that blocked their exit. Ivy has a feeling that she knows who did this deed, which put The Marquess and her reputations on the line.

Being the gentlemen that he is and holding the desperation for his daughter close at hand, Lord Kendall makes an offer for a marriage of convenience. The season for meeting a wife is coming to a close and he is anxious to return to Surrey and his frail baby girl.

This story unfolds from here and as always, Regina Scott, delivers with interesting and varied characters and story line! I have enjoyed this whole series, but I must say that the situations in this particular story touched my heart in a special way. When my own mom passed away my father remarried a wonderful and loving lady. This story reminded me of my deep love and appreciation for Mom Kay! The Lord gives us gifts during our lives on earth and some of those gifts are in people form. 😊 Ivy Bateman is certainly an absolute beauty because of her grace, love, and unselfishness. I found myself cheering for her all the way through this story.

Questions for Regina:
How old were you when you first heard of a Marquess?
You know, I’m not sure! I believe late high school/early college, because that was about the time I fell in love with Regency romances.
 
Is the home of the Marquess modeled after an actual home or did you design this from research?
The exterior is based on Marble Hill House outside London, but I modeled the interior after later homes with conservatories at the center. Of course, instead of plants growing in the center of his home, Villa Romanesque houses an original Roman pavement.
 
​I love how you plunge into the characters and make them move on the pages of your books. How did you come up with Ivy’s and Lord Kendall’s characters?
Ivy sprang to life in Never Kneel to a Knight as the oldest sister of Matthew “Beast of Birmingham” Bateman. Knowing Matthew’s difficult upbringing, I realized his oldest sister would have to be someone special, with an enormous heart and incredible kindness. So, who to pare her with? A broken-hearted widower who needed her so much, even if he doesn’t realize it at first. Thus, Kendall came to be.
 
The pavement room with the Roman mosaic is so special. Is this tidbit from a real collector’s holdings? Or a museum? Or imagination?
There are homes in England with Roman mosaics. Most have been carefully lifted from their original locations and brought somewhere out of the elements to be showcased. I wanted Kendall’s family to have built their home around such a treasure.
 
   



​










​



​This is a drawing of Marble Hill House, the house on which Regina Scott based Villa Romanesque. 

Would you like to share anything about your experience with writing this novel?
The biggest challenge was figuring out what Ivy bakes. That’s one of the ways she expresses her love for people—to bake them sweet treats. You wouldn’t think settling on her specialty would be so difficult, but indoor cooking was actually pretty primitive even in the Great Houses during the Regency period. Very few homes had stoves as we think of them today. Most didn’t have ovens. So, my first inclination—sugar cookies—wasn’t going to work. I decided to go with something closer to a Sally Lunn bun, only with cinnamon swirled throughout. Sally Lunn made “Bath Buns” famous years before the Regency. You can still buy them from her original shop today. I’ve taken tea at Sally Lunn’s. So delicious!

What will your next novel be?
October sees the publication of the first book in my American Wonders collection from Revell, A Distance Too Grand. Meg Pero is determined to take over her late father’s photography business—even serving on a survey of the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. But the leader of the expedition is the man she once refused to marry. Captain Ben Coleridge would like nothing more than to leave without the woman who broke his heart, but he cannot delay. This survey is a screen for another mission, unknown to any other member of his team. As dangers arise, Meg and Ben must work together to stay alive and, just maybe, rekindle a love that neither completely left behind.

How shall your readers contact you?
I’ve recently joined with other authors of sweet Regency romance to host Regency Kisses: Lady Catherine’s Salon on Facebook. We share our love of Regency romances, talk about our latest releases, and host parties and giveaways. Readers can request an invitation to join us at https://www.facebook.com/groups/LadyCatherinesSalon/.

Regina Scott's website:  http://www.reginascott.com/  Regina has a wonderful website filled with interesting historical facts located on her blog page and of course her other book series too! 

Thank you for another WONDERFUL novel! I so appreciate you, Regina!  😊
 
 

Cheshire, England
September 1852
 
Sometimes family can meddle in the unsuspecting, unmarried, near to be spinster’s life, and Charlotte Withersby is just about to find that out. This lady is a knowledgeable botanist who assists her father. She’d love to be published concerning her findings, but has been hindered because she is female. The males in 1852 generally will not take a woman—even one so accomplished—seriously. Her uncle, the retied Admiral, has plans to wed her into what he feels is a purposeful life. When help for her absentminded father shows up at their door, Charlotte plans to get rid of him, this Edward Trimble who is so willing and available to steal her job.  So of course—the struggle begins!  
​
This story is full of Siri Mitchell’s charm and humor and undeniable conflict that I’ve always come to enjoy with her novels. This is an author who knows how to put a story together and keep me engaged in the characters as the plot unfolds! I highly recommend this for your summer reading! You can imagine the fragrance of blossoms on and off the page in that way! Siri Mitchell is a definite favorite of mine, whether you explore her stories via a purchase or the library with electronic device or hold in your hand book, I wish you a happy adventure. 

QUESTIONS FOR SIRI:

1) How did you stumble on the idea of a woman botanist? I’m so glad that you did! 
My public library system has a huge used book sale in the spring and fall. When I write historicals, I go with a list of topics or eras that I hope to find information on. Regardless of what I plan, I always come home with hitchhikers – books that call to me from the shelves for no apparent reason. The funny thing is that they usually come in handy one or two manuscripts down the road because they turn out to be directly relevant to my stories. Somehow my subconscious knows before I do what books I’ll be writing in the future. Women of Flowers by Jack Kramer was one of those books. It has beautiful botanical illustrations by thirty women that were created between the 17th and 19th centuries. The women’s stories are even more interesting. Time after time, they had to publish under male names or sell their work to male editors who compiled collections of botanical illustrations in order to be published. It was outrageous. It was from this outrage that the idea for Like a Flower in Bloom was born.

2)  Where do you like to write your novels? 
I usually write in my office. It’s quiet there and I don’t have to load everything up and spend time driving in order to get anywhere else. For me, home is always best. :) 
And how: pen and paper, in a busy café, quiet study or in front of the television? I write in various ways during different parts of the writing process. As I first think about an idea, I use a Michael Hauge template to make sure my basic elements are in place (character, conflict, tension, goal). I usually go to paper and pen after that to play around with ideas and map out scenes. I use an oversized tablet in the portrait position to think about themes and descriptive words to define and elaborate on it. As I think about plot, I like to write on the tablet set in landscape position. Then, as I think about actual scenes, I have an excel spreadsheet that I print out and use a pencil to fill in. Finally, once I’m ready to start writing, I sit down at the keyboard. At various times during the process, I’ll return to the Excel spreadsheet. I’ll erase some entries or even print out the template again and pencil in a whole new version. 

3) What is your favorite flower and did you include it in this novel?
I am partial to white roses. I always have been. Roses have such beautiful structure they don’t need a lot of color to dress them up. On the other hand, I also love iris. ‘Iris’ is my name spelled backwards but I also love their vibrant colors. Alas, I don’t think I used either of those in the book. Mostly because I was focused on what would have been native to England (or New Zealand) at the time.

4) What message do you wish to share with your reader from a theme in “like a FLOWER in BLOOM? 
Be who you are. Own it. Because the chances of you being able to be someone else? Zero. Allow others the privilege of being themselves too.

5) What is your strongest talent as a writer: organization, plotting, or character development? (Frankly, I think you are strong on all counts!) 
Thank you so much! I would say that my natural strength lies in character development. I’ve worked hard to get my plotting and pacing up to speed over the years.

6) Where can your readers find you?
http://www.sirimitchell.com/  
https://www.facebook.com/Siri-Mitchell-67961379554/

Model Behavior is the perfect title for this non-fiction book. Young people just beginning to choose a college or career and even those retired souls bravely wishing to follow the dream hidden within their hearts, will appreciate Amy’s appealing observations and encouragement.

Amy’s sincere and delightful telling of her own experiences—which seem almost conjured up in Hollywood—have inspired others to follow their hearts desires. My firm belief is that we all have purpose and significance and books like “Model Behavior” detailing real challenges and opportunities strengthen those who read them. Each chapter was fun for me to discover Amy’s fears well-met or opportunities that showed a divine fingerprint. I must ask you, the reader of this book review, “Have you met your tiger yet?” If you desire to discover just what I mean then I invite you to pick up Amy Robnik Joob’s book, “Model Behavior” and read that very inspiring chapter! Well done, Amy. Thank you for sharing your heart on each page, for many who take note of your courage and inspiration will benefit far more than you can imagine!

This ‘calling and vocation’ topic is versatile, useful, and inspiring. I shudder to think of all those who have gone before this book was in print and have not known how to allow themselves to strike out on the journey that would bring them happiness and fulfillment and also allow them to be an inspiration as well.

QUESTIONS FOR AMY:

1. Would you want to turn back time and make other choices about modeling?              I don’t have regrets with my modeling career or choices. I think I stuck to my standards overall and at times when I started to veer away from my convictions, God helped me get back on track. I am thankful He was there to guide and keep me!
2. Why do you cling to God in those times when all seems to be rolling along well?       I think that it’s important to stay close to God whether things are difficult or going well. Due to living a crazy lifestyle before I became a Christian and knowing the fruits of that, my desire has been to remain close to Him. I want to do things His way because I know it will lead to the best life for me and my family.
3. You are an experienced public speaker, so what topics are your favorite to share with teens or young adults? I really enjoy speaking to young people. I want to encourage people to know and understand God’s love & to know that He has a unique, fulfilling purpose for their lives. I also want to help those that have struggled with difficult family issues, anxiety, depression, insecurity and addiction because I have been through those things too. I want to share my story and the hope and victory God has brought in my life.
4. What are you most grateful for right now…this minute? 😊   Right this minute, I am grateful to be sitting outside, enjoying the yard and watching my son Ashton play basketball because he has had to overcome a lot of health issues. I am grateful our daughter Arianna is going into high school and running for clean water through Team World Vision with her best friend. I am also beyond thankful Model Behavior was published this year and my husband Eric has successfully launched his business.
5. Is there another book on the horizon for you to write?  Yes, I am currently working on a devotional for special needs families and I want to write my son’s story about his journey with Noonan Syndrome. Hopefully Ashton’s Journey will be out soon!
6. How do you want your readers to find you?                                                       
   
7. Readers can find me on my website: www.amyjoob.com, at https://m.facebook.com/amyjoob1, at https://www.instagram.com/amyjoob1 or at https://www.twitter.com/@joobamy

 

​This bestselling author created a fascinating post-Civil War story laced with historic accuracy and weighted by concerns relevant during 1871 as well as now. The main character, Alexandra Jamison, makes decisions that upend her world and the comfort and expectations of those around her. Doors of opportunity open for her, which lead readers into an interesting and heartfelt journey. I'm personally glad that I didn’t miss this eloquently told tale of self-discovery and courage to take the right path though consequences are stiff and exacting. I believe you will be thrilled to discover. Sylas Rutledge, the hero, is a northeast Line Railroad owner and very interesting fellow. Sy's character and motivation adds to the thrum of excitement that turns the pages of this novel well into the night. If you enjoy stories embodied by honor, courage, tragedy, and memory of loved ones--then you will love this tale of woe and discovery. These two very different people have an upward battle to fight and the challenges will test the fiber of their very beings. I fell in love with the other characters and the pacing of this story is very satisfying!  
 
Tamera Alexander is a favorite author of mine. I’ve not posted about her novels on this website until now for no other reason but my own demanding schedule. She is a talented storyteller who plumbs deeply into the history and the emotional experience of the people of the time period. This novel is one of the series called A BELLE MEADE PLANTATION NOVEL. Bell Meade is a real place and on Tamara's website she mentions events held at this historic treasure. Visit Tamera Alexandder at: ​https://tameraalexander.com/

Tamera Alexander was not available for an author interview. Her website states that she is in the midst of a deadline. I strongly suggest that you look over her website. Well done Tamara. Thank you for all the excellent work and talent you share in your novels! Reader, I just want to tell you that Tamara  has a blurb on her website for the novel pictured below, which sounds very entreating! Thank you for stopping by!