Interview with Romance/Suspense Author Diane Dean White

Diane started writing for newspaper, covering hard news and feature stories including a column called: “Yankee Viewpoints”. Her writing includes ancestral history and writing donor appeal letters for non-profit organizations. She wrote for Frank Talk, a weekly magazine for over four years, with her column, “Caroline Calling,” and is the author of Carolina in the Morning, Texting Mr. Right, Stories from a Porch Swing, On a Summer Night, and Winter Wonderland. Diane is also the author of over three-hundred short stories. She and hubby, Stephen, have been married for forty-three years, and they are the parents of three grown children and three granddaughters.

Welcome back to my blog, Diane. We’re going to talk about two books today. The first one is an Inspirational Romance called Winter Wonderland. Please tell us about this story.

While most young women are looking for husbands, Ruth tries to further her career and concentrates on obtaining a job with her business skills at Detroit’s J. L. Hudson Department Store. She feels good about her new office position and then meets Clint…who changes everything.

Was he part of the reason for their move? During a health problem will their faith hold them together or threaten a loving relationship? Celebrate the Christmas holiday and follow Ruth in this romantic story, during Detroit’s heyday, in Winter Wonderland.

Where did you get your inspiration for Winter Wonderland?

Being raised next to the capital city of Michigan, we often visited relatives and went shopping in the much larger city, Detroit. JL Hudson Company was a huge department store, and well known. It was a fun adventure, and especially during Christmas with “Toyland” a great place to visit Santa. I was aware of the number of families that came from various states to seek employment with the growing auto industry, after WWII, and it was something I wanted to capture in my book. It was also important for me to share about my character Ruth and her walk with the Lord, her sweet spirit, and ambition to work as a secretary for Hudson’s. As happens in true life, something often gets in the way of our best laid plans, and Clint was a distraction for Ruth. Not without glitches, readers can enjoy a 1951 romance. Once the tallest department store in Detroit, and due to the increasing malls, Hudson’s was sadly taken down in the late 1990’s, with camera crews to capture the historic moment.

The second book is an inspirational suspense/romance. Please tell us about On A Summer Night.

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I loved writing this book. I’m pretty much a fly by the seat of the pants writer, but I had an event I wanted to share with readers. Things have changed greatly from the 1960’s when this story starts out, and captures something two high school graduates discover. Coming back to present day, my main character Kate and her husband return to the area, and she struggles with how much to tell her husband. The book takes a number of twists and turns and readers enjoy a trip to beautiful Montana and the snow-covered mountains, a visit to Lansing, Michigan and the town near Everglades, I call Gladesville, is where the story takes place. The plot deals with a scene that stays in Kate’s mind, and abused women, an uncle whom Kate loved, and redemption all come full circle.

Where did you get your inspiration for On a Summer Night?

I spent time visiting the Everglades in the late 60’s and I also attended college in Florida around the same time. There were a lot of things I was familiar with having grandparents who had a winter home in Florida, but I was from the North and many things happened that I’d never seen in an active University city. I knew the suspense I wanted to share, and I wanted to work spousal abuse, something too many women deal with, into the chapters. It’s important for me to share the plan of salvation in my books, and this has a large influence in two of my characters lives, and something as a Christian, Kate has a hard time accepting. I was happy to see the reviews and that readers enjoy the turns and action that takes place. When the publisher first came out with my book he priced it at a very high cost, and didn’t do an ebook, which was promised. I retained my author rights and cut the paperback price in half, and offer it on Kindle now too.  

Where can my readers find you online?

Website: www.DianeDeanWhite.com

Facebook

Amazon Winter Wonderland

Amazon Summer Night

Thank you so much, Diane, for this wonderful interview. I hope my readers will check out your books.

Mystery on the Bayou is a Fun New Cozy

It’s time to get cozy once again with the Amelia Moore Detective Series. Louisiana, the land of bayous and gumbo! Crawdads, jambalaya, swamps, alligators, and plenty of Spanish moss hanging from the trees! Mystery on the Bayou, book six, blends a nice balance of mystery, intrigue, romance, and humor. Amelia Moore and Rick Bonito, two private eyes and a newly married couple, specialize in missing persons.

“Mystery on the Bayou by Linda Weaver Clarke is a fun book with several surprises. It is an engaging, well-written story that moves the reader at a comfortable pace. If you like intrigue and mystery—this is a must read. The freshly married Amelia Moore and Rick Bonita are nearing the end of their honeymoon when they take a job to find an adopted son that may have a life threatening condition. Stealing a line from the book, “Well, we have a missing boy, gang members, a murder, a kidnapping, and Tom’s kayak floating down the bayou.” And that’s just for starters.” –Brad Andes, Author

Most mysteries delve into crime and “who-done-it,” but this series investigates the whereabouts of a missing person. Their cases have put them in some dangerous situations, but they always solve the case.

In Mystery on the Bayou, Amelia is approached by a woman who is concerned about the son she gave up for adoption sixteen years ago. Millie has been having nightmares that make her fear he is in danger. She petitioned the court to view the sealed records but was refused. Will Amelia and Rick be able to convince the courts to help them? If her son is in danger, will they get there in time?

“I thoroughly enjoyed Ms. Clarke’s new cozy mystery story of Rick and Amelia (Book 6) including the fact that Amelia is now married to Rick and struggling to remember she is now Amelia Moore Bonito! Dedicated to “all of those who have had to deal with Marfan’s Syndrome”, the story centers on a search for an adopted child who is potentially suffering from this rare genetic disorder which can result in optical and cardiovascular problems and may be life-threatening. The story takes us into the Louisiana bayous, introduces us to Cajun food including crayfish, describes alligator life in the deep south, and even teaches us some interesting self-defense maneuvers for women!” –Sherrill Cannon, Author

As you follow Amelia in search for a missing teenager, you will also learn about Marfan’s Syndrome. You will find that it’s not as rare as many think. 

Author Linda Baten Johnson wrote: “Linda Weaver Clarke has done it again. She always provides a sweet romantic story, but one that teaches too. The subject matter in this book is Marfan's Syndrome and the story is set partially in Louisiana. I lived there for several years and Clarke's description of the bayous and the food made me want to return.”

About the Author

Linda Weaver Clarke travels throughout the United States, teaching people to write their family history and autobiography. She is the author of several historical sweet romances, a mystery/adventure series, a children’s book, and a cozy mystery series.

Mystery on the Bayou (ISBN-13: 978-1517574055, Red Mountain Shadows Publishing, 2015) can be found at local libraries or online bookstores.

Read a sample chapter at Linda’s website: www.lindaweaverclarke.com.

To purchase a book, visit Linda’s website or visit Amazon at http://www.amazon.com/Mystery-Bayou-Amelia-Moore-Detective-ebook/dp/B015YQG6ZW

Interview with Sweet Romance Author Jennifer Peel

Jennifer Peel is the mother of three amazing kiddos. Wife to her one and only for the past twenty-one years. Lover of late night talks, beach vacations, the mountains, pink bubble gum ice cream, tours of model homes, and southern living. She can frequently be found with her laptop on, fingers typing away, indulging in chocolate milk, and writing out the stories that are constantly swirling through her head.

Welcome to my blog, Jennifer. Please tell us about your novel: Jessie Belle: The Women of Merryton.

Jessie Belle is a story about a couple who were once deeply in love with each other, but over the years due to circumstances and difficulties have lost sight of that. Then enters a teenage girl and they are forced to reevaluate their relationship and priorities. It is a love story, but one where they get to rediscover each other and fall in love again, but this time with a deeper connection.

This is book one of this series. Where did you get your inspiration for this story?

A couple of years ago I was waiting for my son in the car line at school and the name Jessie Belle came to me. I typed it into my phone and thought about it for a while. My first draft of Jessie Belle was a much, much different story. Blake and Jessica weren’t even married in the first version and Blake had a different name. Then this past spring I kept having this thought or maybe even a vision of this couple. The man was holding a woman telling her he loved her, but she wasn’t so sure. I couldn’t get this couple out of my mind. I knew this was Blake and Jessica and I rewrote the whole story.

Merryton is based on my hometown in Colorado. In fact if you are paying close attention to it, I mention the name of my hometown in the book.

It’s so fun to learn about the inspiration of a story. Thanks. What kind of research did you do?

                                                                       

I was a psychology major in college, so I brushed up on psychology and the grieving process. As well as some aspects about therapy. I also did some medical research. And I always do research about the locations I write about. This time I was lucky enough to visit Salt Lake City for research purposes.

Please tell us about the main character in this story and what you love about him or her.

I love Jessie as she is real. She’s a good person, but she has flaws like we all do. I love that she keeps trying even though she feels like she can’t try anymore. I love how she loves, especially how she loves Maddie. I enjoy her tenacity and her sense of self. And I have to say I love her circle of friends that add a lot of comic relief to the story.

Oh, yes! Comic relief is great. Now it’s time to tell us something about the real you that we’ll never forget.

I didn’t write my first novel until I was forty years old. Talk about a mid-life crisis. Just kidding. At least about the mid-life crisis part.

How wonderful! This shows that you’re never too old to do something you’ve always longed to do in your life. Thank you so much for this interview. Below is my review of this wonderful story. I thoroughly enjoyed it and would read it again.

“Jessie Bell by Jennifer peel is such an adorable story that has romance, frustration, and humor. This is a story about a married couple who are trying to repair their marriage. As for humor, I was actually laughing out loud. As for frustration, Blake is a quiet man and doesn’t talk much, he is a workaholic, and takes his wife for granted. As for romance, Blake is a real hunk, unselfishly supports his wife’s career, and his kisses are to die for.

Just like most wives, Jessica expects Blake to read her mind. One big point on Blake’s side is how he notices that she is distant with him. What does he do about it? He asks her what is wrong. I love this guy. He is learning quickly how to save their marriage.

I love this story. It was a well-developed plot and not slow, by any means. Even though this story is about a married couple, it is a great love story. As Jessica says: “I think I may be falling in love with my husband.” Why do I love this couple? They remind me of several couples I know.” –Review by Author Linda Weaver Clarke

Interview with Comedy/Romance Author Brooke Williams

Brooke Williams is a former radio announcer turned stay at home mom/freelance writer/author. She has two daughters and has been married since 2002. Brooke has written numerous novels including “Someone Always Loved You,” “Beyond the Bars,” and the recent romantic comedies “Accept this Dandelion,” “Wrong Place, Right Time,” “Mamarazzi,” and many more.

Welcome back to my blog, Brooke. Dandelions on the Road is the second book in the Dandelion Series. I absolutely loved the first book in this series because it had so much humor. Please tell us about this new story.

I didn’t intend for “Accept this Dandelion” to turn into a series. The truth of the matter is that the third runner up on the show that the novel covers would NOT leave me alone. She wanted me to write her story. “Accept this Dandelion” shows a Bachelor-like dating show and this book is a Bachelorette type show with a female in the decision role. She’s a gorgeous girl with a big heart and the men fall all over themselves to get on her good side. But she’s also not willing to settle for love and she wants to find the exact right man, on or off the show.

In your first book, it was a Bachelor Dating Show. Now it’s a Bachelorette Show. Where did you get your inspiration for the Dandelion Series and how many books do you expect to write for it?

I wrote the first book because I enjoy “The Bachelor” TV show and see the humor potential behind the show. After I wrote the first book and enjoyed the experience SO much, I thought, hmm, too bad that’s it because that was way too much fun! But I never expected a second book to pop into my mind in relation to it. I have also since written a third book called “After the Final Dandelion.” No spoilers, but it includes a wedding. I have a fourth book in mind, but I don’t know if/when I’ll get to it so it will be a three book series for sure, possibly four.

What intrigues you most about dating shows such as the ones in your two books?

It’s always interesting to hear people’s love stories and how they met the person they married. Who doesn’t love a good romance, right? I watch these shows with fascination about the people and their reasons for going on the show. I also wondered what the show would be like with someone more like me on it, which is where I got the idea for Book 1. The main character in that book is not an ideal candidate on such a show! Book 2 explores the idea of someone going on the show and finding lots of great candidates, but maybe not the exact right fit…then what?!

Please tell us about one of the main characters in this story and what you like about him or her.

If you have read any of my previous novels, you may sometimes recognize characters who cross over. This book takes Eva, who played a small part in “Accept this Dandelion,” and gives her a main role. It also rejuvenates Brian Schaffer from “Wrong Place, Right Time.” In that book, he’s a news anchor and in this book, he resumes that role. He also takes on the job of hosting the dating game show. I really like his character. He’s the type of guy who has trouble saying no and he’ll do just about anything for just about anyone. He also has a dimple that never disappears, which is charming and alluring all at once.

Where can my readers find you online?

I love facebook connections so give my page a like and keep in touch that way!

Https://www.facebook.com/authorbrookewilliams

I also have a website that includes a blog and you can sign up to receive the blog easily there: www.authorbrookewilliams.com

Thank you very much for this fun interview. Below is my review of this cute story.

“Dandelions on the Road is such a cute take on a Bachelorette Reality Show. This time Eva, from book one, is going to date twelve men and find out which one is meant for her. She is a very sweet personality and does not want to hurt anyone during this show. That is why the decision of choosing one man is so difficult. Also, she has learned to love different things about each bachelor for one reason or another. This to me was very interesting and I began to wonder if it would be hard to choose the right man if I were in her shoes.

“Brian, the show’s host, has gotten to know Eva quite well, because he worked with her several months before the Bachelorette Show and now during the show. He soon finds himself in a dilemma, because he is the host of the show and falling in love with the Bachelorette. What is he to do at this point? This is a fun read!” –Review by Author Linda Weaver Clarke

Interview with Author Jill Vanderwood

Jill Ammon Vanderwood is a mother and grandmother from Idaho. She is the published author of eight books. She had won numerous book awards including USA Book News Best Books Award, Indie Excellence Award, two Golden Quill Awards from the League of Utah Writers and The National Mom’s Choice Award. www.jillvanderwood.com.

Welcome back to my blog, Jill. Please tell us about your new book: Erase the Problem of Bullying.

Erase the Problem of Bullying is a nonfiction anthology published in August, 2015, through All Things That Matter Press. The book sections include: How Bullying Affected My Life; Stories from Bullies; Bullied for Sexual Orientation; Bullied Because of a Disability; Bullied Because of Race; Bullied Because of Religion; Learn From the Experts; Cyberbullying: Celebrities Share Their Stories About Being Bullied and The Unwritten Letter’s Project which tells about the founder of the Unwritten Letter’s Project and includes some of the contributor’s letters to their bullies.

  

Where did you get your inspiration for this book?

My granddaughter was having so much trouble with bullying that she came to me and asked if I would write a book about bullying. I was also bullied in school and thought it was a very good idea for a book

I totally agree with you. This is a subject that needs to be addressed in schools. What kind of research did you do for this book?

I posted on the Internet that I was looking for stories from people who were bullied. I got so many responses that I began the book. My next post was for celebrities who were bullied and I heard from a few more people. One interview was with twin psychics who were bullied because they were Korean adopted into an Italian, Catholic community in New York. These ladies are making their own TV show called Twin Tuition and introduced me to many of their celebrity friends.

Please give a few examples of bullying experts included in your book.

I have stories from juvenile court Judge Tom Jacobs who talks about cyberbullying. Izzy Kalman is the founder of Bullies 2 Buddies; Irene van der Zande is the founder of Kid Power and Matt Ivester is the founder of Juicy Campus and author of lol…OMG! I also interviewed William Preble from School Climate in Learning.

Please tell us a few examples of well-known people who were bullied that you included in this book.

I have interviewed celebrities such as NBA All Star, James Donaldson who nearly let bullying stand in the way of his basketball career.  Heba Salama, who was the winner of the Biggest Loser and Daniel Joseph Baker who was a finalist on America’s Got Talent. We also hear from Hollywood Movie producer, Katherine Brooks who fled her home in Louisiana after word got around her school that she was in love with her best girlfriend.

Where can my readers find you online?

My book is available through Amazon.com and Amazon Kindle. You can find me at www.jillvanderwood.com. 

Thank you so much for this awesome interview. I hope my readers will get your book and that it will help many children in this terrible predicament.