Hey everyone, just wanted to let you know that Just the Way You Are is on sale through May 29th! After the 29th, it’ll go back to $2.99!
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What are you reading this summer? |
Tag: romance
Gilmore Girls or From the Start with Melissa Tagg!
I am beyond stoked for today’s post. The fantabulous
Melissa Tagg is here and if you know anything about her, she’s a huge fan of
Gilmore Girls. So we’re going to play a few rounds of Would You Rather with her
and she has to choose from Gilmore Girls or her newest novel, From the Start! Oh yeah, it’s a blast! PS, I’m over on her blog today sharing comparisons in relation to my newest novella, Just the Way You Are, so hop over ther next! CLICK HERE.
Melissa Tagg is here and if you know anything about her, she’s a huge fan of
Gilmore Girls. So we’re going to play a few rounds of Would You Rather with her
and she has to choose from Gilmore Girls or her newest novel, From the Start! Oh yeah, it’s a blast! PS, I’m over on her blog today sharing comparisons in relation to my newest novella, Just the Way You Are, so hop over ther next! CLICK HERE.
Let’s do this!
Would You Rather…
…live in Stars Hollow (GG) or Maple Valley (FTS)?
ACK that’s so hard. But I’m going to go with Maple
Valley and here’s why: It’s in Iowa. As quirky and wonderful as Stars Hollow
is, it’s in Connecticut and I know no one there.
Valley and here’s why: It’s in Iowa. As quirky and wonderful as Stars Hollow
is, it’s in Connecticut and I know no one there.
Then again, if Jess was there…
…go canoeing with Luke Danes (GG) or your very own star, Colton Greene?
Luke! I love Colton, I do. But he’s got this bad
shoulder from a football injury so what if we get stuck in the middle of a
river and he can’t row and the current is crazy and I’m too wimpy to get us
back to shore? Luke, to my knowledge, has no such injury so I feel confident in
his rowing abilities.
shoulder from a football injury so what if we get stuck in the middle of a
river and he can’t row and the current is crazy and I’m too wimpy to get us
back to shore? Luke, to my knowledge, has no such injury so I feel confident in
his rowing abilities.
Plus, he could entertain me with one of his
anti-Taylor Doose rants. Plus, I appreciate his style—flannel shirts and that green
army-ish jacket. So that gives him an edge.
anti-Taylor Doose rants. Plus, I appreciate his style—flannel shirts and that green
army-ish jacket. So that gives him an edge.
…sit in a town meeting under Mayor Taylor Doose (GG) or the Mayor of
Maple Valley who, if I remember correctly, used a megaphone in one of the town
meetings?
Maple Valley who, if I remember correctly, used a megaphone in one of the town
meetings?
I like my mayor, I do. But other than his megaphone
scene, he’s a pretty brief shadow in From the Start. So I’m going to go with
Taylor because I would get immense enjoyment out of listening to him talk about
the dangers of ticks or the need for better leash laws or his intense
competition with the farmers market people in the Town Square.
scene, he’s a pretty brief shadow in From the Start. So I’m going to go with
Taylor because I would get immense enjoyment out of listening to him talk about
the dangers of ticks or the need for better leash laws or his intense
competition with the farmers market people in the Town Square.
…have a first kiss with Jess (GG) or Colton (FTS)? Oooooh! That’s gonna
be tough for you, isn’t it since you’re such a big Jess fan?!
be tough for you, isn’t it since you’re such a big Jess fan?!
Honestly, this is not even hard for me. I would
absolutely pick Jess. Thing is, I LOVE Colton. I really do. But he is so firmly
connected to Kate in my mind that I’d feel like a cheater if I kissed him.
Whereas Jess, last we heard from him, is happily unconnected. (Because stupid
Rory doesn’t know a good thing when she has it.) So I would feel zero guilt
about kissing him.
absolutely pick Jess. Thing is, I LOVE Colton. I really do. But he is so firmly
connected to Kate in my mind that I’d feel like a cheater if I kissed him.
Whereas Jess, last we heard from him, is happily unconnected. (Because stupid
Rory doesn’t know a good thing when she has it.) So I would feel zero guilt
about kissing him.
…hang out for a day with Lorelei Gilmore or Kate Walker (FTS)?
Kate Walker. I think Lorelai is awesome…we have some
striking similarities. But Kate…Kate would get me. Kate would understand my
deepest emotions and shallowest quirks. And she would talk about writing and
watch old movies with me. We’d totally bond.
striking similarities. But Kate…Kate would get me. Kate would understand my
deepest emotions and shallowest quirks. And she would talk about writing and
watch old movies with me. We’d totally bond.
…be best buds with Rory Gilmore or Hailey (FTS)?
Hailey, no question. Here’s the thing with Rory: By
the end of Gilmore Girls, she’s kind of an idiot. I’m sorry, but she makes the
most ridiculous decisions from season 5 on. Now, if we were talking strictly
early seasons Rory, I might have a different answer.
the end of Gilmore Girls, she’s kind of an idiot. I’m sorry, but she makes the
most ridiculous decisions from season 5 on. Now, if we were talking strictly
early seasons Rory, I might have a different answer.
But the great thing about Hailey in FTS is that she
isn’t afraid to challenge Kate. We see it early on in the book and we see it
later on at the end of the book. She’s hugely influential in Kate’s life and
she’s wise. So I’d definitely go with her.
isn’t afraid to challenge Kate. We see it early on in the book and we see it
later on at the end of the book. She’s hugely influential in Kate’s life and
she’s wise. So I’d definitely go with her.
…have Richard Gilmore as a father figure or Kate’s dad, Case Walker.
Kate’s dad! Not hard at all to decide on that one.
Richard Gilmore is a wonderful character and we definitely get to see his
loving, caring side in Gilmore Girls. But…we also know he wasn’t all that
emotionally available or understanding as Lorelai’s father. And a lot of
Lorelai’s mistakes in the show are side effects of feeling unaccepted or
misunderstood by her family.
Richard Gilmore is a wonderful character and we definitely get to see his
loving, caring side in Gilmore Girls. But…we also know he wasn’t all that
emotionally available or understanding as Lorelai’s father. And a lot of
Lorelai’s mistakes in the show are side effects of feeling unaccepted or
misunderstood by her family.
Case Walker on the other hand is, of course, not
perfect. But he is a wonderful listener. He’ll challenge his daughter, but
always from a place of love. He somehow manages to be stern and gentle at once.
And he sees past the fronts his adult kids put up.
perfect. But he is a wonderful listener. He’ll challenge his daughter, but
always from a place of love. He somehow manages to be stern and gentle at once.
And he sees past the fronts his adult kids put up.
…go to a Gilmore Friday night dinner or a Friday night football game in
Maple Valley?
Maple Valley?
Gilmore Friday night dinner! I’m sure a football game
would be fun, but a Gilmore dinner would include crazy amounts of wit and
banter and snark. And I would highly enjoy the awkward moments…highly.
would be fun, but a Gilmore dinner would include crazy amounts of wit and
banter and snark. And I would highly enjoy the awkward moments…highly.
…erase Logan Huntzberger from Rory’s life and make sure Jess stays in
the picture or go on romantic date with Logan Walker which includes a glorious
kiss at the end? (I’m torn here so I’m personally not answering ha!)
the picture or go on romantic date with Logan Walker which includes a glorious
kiss at the end? (I’m torn here so I’m personally not answering ha!)
Oh my gosh! When I first read this, I thought the
second option was a romantic date with Logan Huntzberger and I was like, “Why
would you even ask me this? Logan Huntzberger is so far from my type it’s
hilarious. There’s not even a decision to be made here!”
second option was a romantic date with Logan Huntzberger and I was like, “Why
would you even ask me this? Logan Huntzberger is so far from my type it’s
hilarious. There’s not even a decision to be made here!”
Then I realized you said Logan Walker…my Logan. And
things got DIFFICULT. Because I adore Logan Walker and have an amazingly
unreasonable crush on the guy who portrays him on my cover (that I wish so
badly I could share!).
things got DIFFICULT. Because I adore Logan Walker and have an amazingly
unreasonable crush on the guy who portrays him on my cover (that I wish so
badly I could share!).
And yet, I love Jess…I will love him forever.
But you know, in my imagination, Jess DOES stay in the
picture for Rory. And Logan Huntzberger may not be my thing—not even a little
bit—but he does have his good moments and there are ways Rory does grow (I
suppose) from her relationship with him. (Even if mostly he just encourages her
stupid decisions and spends the bulk of his time on screen whining.) I don’t
think he needs to be entirely erased from her life.
picture for Rory. And Logan Huntzberger may not be my thing—not even a little
bit—but he does have his good moments and there are ways Rory does grow (I
suppose) from her relationship with him. (Even if mostly he just encourages her
stupid decisions and spends the bulk of his time on screen whining.) I don’t
think he needs to be entirely erased from her life.
So my choice is a romantic date with Logan Walker
which includes a glorious kiss at the end.
which includes a glorious kiss at the end.
And now I realize half of this post has been talk of
kissing fictional people. I’m not sure how I feel about this…lol!
kissing fictional people. I’m not sure how I feel about this…lol!
(Jess here) Well, I feel good about it so that’s what
counts, right? Great answers, Melissa! This was so much fun!
counts, right? Great answers, Melissa! This was so much fun!
Okay,
friends, are you a Gilmore Girls fan? If so, we’d love for you to answer a few
of the questions in the comments. If not, who would you share a fictional first
kiss with?
friends, are you a Gilmore Girls fan? If so, we’d love for you to answer a few
of the questions in the comments. If not, who would you share a fictional first
kiss with?
Take a peek at From
the Start then go buy the book! I loved it!
the Start then go buy the book! I loved it!
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| Buy the book! |
Kate Walker used to believe in true love and happily
ever after. While her own love life may have left her brokenhearted, it hasn’t
kept her from churning out made-for-TV romance movie screenplays…until a
major career slump and a longing to do something meaningful send her running
back to her hometown of Maple Valley.
ever after. While her own love life may have left her brokenhearted, it hasn’t
kept her from churning out made-for-TV romance movie screenplays…until a
major career slump and a longing to do something meaningful send her running
back to her hometown of Maple Valley.
Permanently sidelined by an injury, former NFL quarterback Colton Greene is
temporarily hiding out in a friend’s hometown to avoid the media and the
reminders of all he’s lost. Maple Valley seems like the perfect place to learn
how to adjust to normal life. The only trouble is he’s never really done normal
before.
While Kate plays things safe and Colton is all about big risks and grand
gestures, they both get what it’s like to desperately need direction in life.
An unexpected project gives them both a chance to jumpstart their new lives,
but old wounds and new dreams are hard to ignore. Starting over wasn’t part of
the plan, but could it be the best thing that’s ever happened to them?
A Taste of Texas w/ Julie Jarnagin
I am
so excited today to have my good friend Julie Jarnagin here. Julie is one of my
favorite authors too! And today she’s talking about her novella. Take it away,
Julie!
so excited today to have my good friend Julie Jarnagin here. Julie is one of my
favorite authors too! And today she’s talking about her novella. Take it away,
Julie!
Hi,
everyone. Julie Jarnagin here. I’m so excited to be on Jessica’s blog today.
Jessica is one of those friends who can always make me smile even when I’m
having a bad day!
everyone. Julie Jarnagin here. I’m so excited to be on Jessica’s blog today.
Jessica is one of those friends who can always make me smile even when I’m
having a bad day!
Do
y’all love comfort food as much as I do? When I think of comfort food, the first
thing I think about is the potlucks we used to have in the basement of my small
hometown church. The entire table would be covered in fried chicken, ham,
broccoli and cheese casserole, deviled eggs (someone always brought deviled
eggs), and more delicious dishes than I can list. And then there was the
dessert table! Coconut cream pie, Texas sheet cake, banana pudding…yum!
y’all love comfort food as much as I do? When I think of comfort food, the first
thing I think about is the potlucks we used to have in the basement of my small
hometown church. The entire table would be covered in fried chicken, ham,
broccoli and cheese casserole, deviled eggs (someone always brought deviled
eggs), and more delicious dishes than I can list. And then there was the
dessert table! Coconut cream pie, Texas sheet cake, banana pudding…yum!
My
goal in writing my latest series, Taste of Texas, was to give you that same
feeling that I got at those potlucks full of great food and warm people. And
I’m having a blast writing them. These books are all set in central Texas and
have plenty of good food and cute cowboys. What could be better? 🙂
goal in writing my latest series, Taste of Texas, was to give you that same
feeling that I got at those potlucks full of great food and warm people. And
I’m having a blast writing them. These books are all set in central Texas and
have plenty of good food and cute cowboys. What could be better? 🙂
I
recently released the first book in the series, a novella titled The Art of Falling where you’ll meet
Heather, a cautious art museum fundraiser, and Wyatt, a bull rider with a big
heart. I actually wrote my upcoming novel Kiss the Cowboy first, but as I was
working on it, I realized that two of the secondary characters, Heather and Wyatt,
had their own story to tell. That’s where the idea for The Art of Falling was born.
recently released the first book in the series, a novella titled The Art of Falling where you’ll meet
Heather, a cautious art museum fundraiser, and Wyatt, a bull rider with a big
heart. I actually wrote my upcoming novel Kiss the Cowboy first, but as I was
working on it, I realized that two of the secondary characters, Heather and Wyatt,
had their own story to tell. That’s where the idea for The Art of Falling was born.
What are some
of your favorite kinds of comfort food?
of your favorite kinds of comfort food?
Below
is my mother-in-law’s famous chocolate sheet cake recipe.
is my mother-in-law’s famous chocolate sheet cake recipe.
Pat’s
Chocolate Sheet Cake
Chocolate Sheet Cake
2
cups sugar
cups sugar
2 cups
flour
flour
1
stick oleo
stick oleo
1/2
cup shortening
cup shortening
1
tsp salt
tsp salt
1
tsp vanilla
tsp vanilla
4
Tbsp cocoa
Tbsp cocoa
1
cup water
cup water
2
eggs
eggs
1tsp
soda
soda
1/2
cup buttermilk
cup buttermilk
Mix
flour and sugar in a bowl. Bring oleo, shortening, cocoa and water to a boil.
Add hot mixture to sugar and four, mix well. Add remaining ingredients and mix
well. Bake at 400 degrees for 15 minutes in an 18x12x1 inch pan.
flour and sugar in a bowl. Bring oleo, shortening, cocoa and water to a boil.
Add hot mixture to sugar and four, mix well. Add remaining ingredients and mix
well. Bake at 400 degrees for 15 minutes in an 18x12x1 inch pan.
Icing:
1
stick oleo
stick oleo
6
Tbsp milk
Tbsp milk
1
Tbsp cocoa
Tbsp cocoa
1
box powdered sugar
box powdered sugar
1
tsp vanilla
tsp vanilla
Bring
oleo, milk and cocoa to a boil. Then add powdered sugar and vanilla. Frost cake
while still hot.
oleo, milk and cocoa to a boil. Then add powdered sugar and vanilla. Frost cake
while still hot.
Here’s a peek at The Art of Falling
Heather Tornsten needs a man…a celebrity,
more specifically, for a fundraising gala for the Dallas art museum, where she
works. And what better headliner than bull rider Wyatt Lawrence? Although why
people idolize grown men who make their living falling off animals, she’ll
never understand.
more specifically, for a fundraising gala for the Dallas art museum, where she
works. And what better headliner than bull rider Wyatt Lawrence? Although why
people idolize grown men who make their living falling off animals, she’ll
never understand.
When his mom was diagnosed with cancer,
Wyatt determined to focus on doing what she wants—like visiting some art
museum. But when his mom teams up with Heather Tornsten to get him involved in
a fundraiser, he knows he’s been set up. The more involved he gets with the
pretty events coordinator, the more he realizes falling off a bull is far
safer. Because falling for Heather–who has made it clear that she won’t risk her
heart on any man who courts danger–might break a whole lot more than his bones.
Wyatt determined to focus on doing what she wants—like visiting some art
museum. But when his mom teams up with Heather Tornsten to get him involved in
a fundraiser, he knows he’s been set up. The more involved he gets with the
pretty events coordinator, the more he realizes falling off a bull is far
safer. Because falling for Heather–who has made it clear that she won’t risk her
heart on any man who courts danger–might break a whole lot more than his bones.
Julie Jarnagin is a multi-published author of inspirational
romance. She grew up in a small Oklahoma town where her family farmed and
ranched. These days she lives in a not-so-big city with her amazing
husband and two young sons who tolerate all her nerdy
quirks. Julie earned a B.A. in Journalism / Professional Writing from
the University of Oklahoma and is a member of American Christian Fiction
Writers. www.JulieJarnagin.com
romance. She grew up in a small Oklahoma town where her family farmed and
ranched. These days she lives in a not-so-big city with her amazing
husband and two young sons who tolerate all her nerdy
quirks. Julie earned a B.A. in Journalism / Professional Writing from
the University of Oklahoma and is a member of American Christian Fiction
Writers. www.JulieJarnagin.com
It’s Been Awhile…Coffee with Jess A VLOG!
Hey everyone! It’s been a long time since I’ve done a vlog and today I want to share the inspiration behind the Seasons of Hope novella series that I’ve been working on.
As of right now book 1 & 2 have been FREE (limited time) to subscribers, so if you haven’t subscribed to the Patched In newsletter, do it now and you’ll be receiving 2 more novellas for FREE this year. Right now both books, Hope Under Mistletoe and Just the Way You Are are available for purchase at Amazon.
I say “know-vella” and I think up north it might be pronounced “nah-vella.” Well…I live near Memphis so it’s “know-vella.” Also, be aware, this is totally off the cuff, no retakes. Um…sorry? Not sorry. Okay, let’s chat about the inspiration behind the series. Get your coffee…settle in for just a few moments and let’s do this!
What’s your favorite season and why?
Love Is In the Air…and Also Pollen & a New Book!
Hey everyone! I hope wherever you are, you have sunshine and and blue skies. Speaking of sunshine and blue skies, it’s spring time in Mistletoe and love is in the air…along with pollen and some news that will change Audrey’s life forever!
That’s right, Just the Way You Are, book 2 in the Seasons of Hope series has released and is available for purchase for ONLY $2.99! Whaaaaat?! 🙂 It can be read as a standalone but why not grab up book 1 Hope Under Mistletoe for only .99 while you’re at it! Two more books in this series is coming. Next is Cassie and Jax (set in fall) and it ends with Sierra and Ezra (set in summer)! I love this small town and quirky cast of characters and I hope you do too!
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What is your favorite thing about spring? |
CELEBRATING JILL KEMERER AND HER DEBUT NOVEL
I’m thrilled to have my dear friend and debut author, Jill Kemerer with me today, to celebrate her Love Inspired novel, Small-Town Bachelor! I loved this book so much. Jill is quirky, fun, and the woman knows how to write romance!
You can win a copy by entering the giveaway below!
It’s been an incredible journey for Jill and I’m so glad that I’ve been alongside her for the last few years.
Let’s all settle in and have a major virtual party.
Chocolate. M&Ms. Champagne. Coffee. Yummy McDonald’s french fries! What’s your poison? Grab it and check out a sneak peek at Jill’s debut! And don’t forget to go buy it! Then we’re going to play a round of Would You Rather!
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When Reed Hamilton arrives in Lake Endwell for a family wedding, he expects to do his part as best man then head back to the big city. But when a a tornado postpones the wedding, the town is in shambles and Reed is injured. Thankfully maid of honor Claire Sheffield offers him one of her cottages to recuperate in. Dedicated to her family and her dream job at the zoo, Claire is all about roots. She’s this city slicker’s opposite, yet as they help the town rebuild, Reed is captivated by her stunning looks and caring ways. He can’t ask Claire to leave the life she loves for him, but he also can’t imagine ever leaving her behind…
Ah! Doesn’t that sound great? Okay, let the games begin!
Would You
Rather…
Rather…
…be stuck alone in a tornado or with someone you love in a hurricane?
Jill: With someone I love in a hurricane! I’m a big
baby. I don’t want to be in a disaster all by myself!
baby. I don’t want to be in a disaster all by myself!
Reed: Alone. In both.
Claire: I would want to be with all of my loved ones
in the hurricane, and I’d take my baby otters with me.
in the hurricane, and I’d take my baby otters with me.
…work really hard at an interesting job or slack off at a boring job?
Jill: I have the most interesting job, and it’s a
pleasure to work hard at it. A boring job is NOT for me!
pleasure to work hard at it. A boring job is NOT for me!
Reed: Slacking off isn’t in my vocabulary.
Claire: I worked one summer at my dad’s car
dealership. Talk about boring! Never again. I don’t mind hard work when it’s
interesting.
dealership. Talk about boring! Never again. I don’t mind hard work when it’s
interesting.
…be in constant pain or have a constant itch?
Jill: What kind of question is this, Jessica?? I don’t
like pain, and I don’t like itching. I’m adding a third. A constant massage. J
like pain, and I don’t like itching. I’m adding a third. A constant massage. J
Reed: My recent experience with a broken leg left me
with both. I’d rather be in pain.
with both. I’d rather be in pain.
Claire: Neither? I guess the itch. But that’s like
asking if I want to eat moldy cheese or a rancid meatball. Both are pretty bad!
asking if I want to eat moldy cheese or a rancid meatball. Both are pretty bad!
…go through life unable to ask any questions or unable to answer any
questions?
questions?
Jill: I have a big mouth. I like to answer questions.
But I ask a lot of questions too… Let’s go with being unable to answer
questions. I’m a mom. Asking questions is what I do.
But I ask a lot of questions too… Let’s go with being unable to answer
questions. I’m a mom. Asking questions is what I do.
Reed: As a project manager for a construction company,
I have to be able to ask questions. The answers show up in the end result.
I have to be able to ask questions. The answers show up in the end result.
Claire: Oh, this is hard! If I had to choose one, I’d
say I’d rather be unable to ask questions. I love being a sounding board for my
friends and family.
say I’d rather be unable to ask questions. I love being a sounding board for my
friends and family.
Love these answers! It was a good question! Ha! Jill,
tell us what you’re working on next?
tell us what you’re working on next?
Jill: My second book, Unexpected Family, will
be in stores in September, so I’ve been preparing for that! Unexpected
Family is also set in Lake Endwell and features Claire’s oldest brother
Tom, who gets a life-altering surprise. I’m also polishing my third Lake
Endwell book, which is about Claire’s brother Bryan and his outdoor adventures
with the new girl in town. Thank you so much for having me today, Jessica!
be in stores in September, so I’ve been preparing for that! Unexpected
Family is also set in Lake Endwell and features Claire’s oldest brother
Tom, who gets a life-altering surprise. I’m also polishing my third Lake
Endwell book, which is about Claire’s brother Bryan and his outdoor adventures
with the new girl in town. Thank you so much for having me today, Jessica!
I’m stoked to have you here. So proud of you, Jill!
Jill
Kemerer writes inspirational romance novels with love, humor and faith. A full
time writer and homemaker, she relies on coffee and chocolate to keep up with
her kids’ busy schedules.
Kemerer writes inspirational romance novels with love, humor and faith. A full
time writer and homemaker, she relies on coffee and chocolate to keep up with
her kids’ busy schedules.
Besides
spoiling her mini-dachshund, Jill adores magazines, M&MS, fluffy animals
and long nature walks. She resides in Ohio with her husband and two
children. Jill loves connecting with
readers, so please visit her website www.jillkemerer.com
and find her on Facebookand Twitter.
spoiling her mini-dachshund, Jill adores magazines, M&MS, fluffy animals
and long nature walks. She resides in Ohio with her husband and two
children. Jill loves connecting with
readers, so please visit her website www.jillkemerer.com
and find her on Facebookand Twitter.
Your turn: Answer one or all of the questions in the comments and don’t forget to congratulate Jill!
Creating a Killer Kiss!
Hey everyone! Join me over at Thoughts on Plot where I’m talking about Smoochic–creating killer kisses using music to set the mood!
You may not be a writer, but check out my process and maybe discover new music!
Have you signed up for my newsletter? No? Well, you should or you’ll miss out on a FREE novella coming April 2nd to those who are Patched In! Just click on the signup button in the upper right corner. Easy peasy.
When Pastor Gabe asks
Audrey Gilbraith to use her mad florist skills to help him design a prayer
garden, she’s all in, especially since it helps take her mind off the fact
she’s about to lose her job and her apartment. But working closely with Gabe
and not falling for him is complicated. She’s not pastor’s wife material, and
she has the past to prove it.
Audrey Gilbraith to use her mad florist skills to help him design a prayer
garden, she’s all in, especially since it helps take her mind off the fact
she’s about to lose her job and her apartment. But working closely with Gabe
and not falling for him is complicated. She’s not pastor’s wife material, and
she has the past to prove it.
Gabriel Brookson wants out
of Audrey’s friend-zone, but when he pursues her romantically, he ruffles more
than a few feathers in his congregation. How much is he willing to give up for
this wonderful, quirky woman, and will Audrey accept him if he risks it all?
of Audrey’s friend-zone, but when he pursues her romantically, he ruffles more
than a few feathers in his congregation. How much is he willing to give up for
this wonderful, quirky woman, and will Audrey accept him if he risks it all?
Giddy Up with Jill Lynn!
Howdy partners! I say
that because today’s book is set in Texas. I doubt Texans really say that but
whatevs. I’m so stoked to have Jill Lynn on the blog today. I had the chance to
read her debut Love Inspired novel, and it was wonderful, fun, deep, emotional.
All sorts of good vibes coming out of this book! Let’s play a round of our favorite
game with her and her cast!
that because today’s book is set in Texas. I doubt Texans really say that but
whatevs. I’m so stoked to have Jill Lynn on the blog today. I had the chance to
read her debut Love Inspired novel, and it was wonderful, fun, deep, emotional.
All sorts of good vibes coming out of this book! Let’s play a round of our favorite
game with her and her cast!
Would You Rather…
…go back in time and change something in
the past or know something important about the future?
the past or know something important about the future?
Jill: Neither! Might
sound crazy, but I think everything happens for a reason. And if I knew
something about the future, that would totally mess with me!
sound crazy, but I think everything happens for a reason. And if I knew
something about the future, that would totally mess with me!
Olivia: As you get to
know Olivia, you’ll find she’d do anything to erase the past. Until she begins
to realize that God can use it for good.
know Olivia, you’ll find she’d do anything to erase the past. Until she begins
to realize that God can use it for good.
Cash: Though Cash
doesn’t hide things like Olivia, he definitely has things to let go of. I’d
have to say change something in the past for him also. Although… he’d love to
see that his sister Rachel’s okay in the future. Tough one!
doesn’t hide things like Olivia, he definitely has things to let go of. I’d
have to say change something in the past for him also. Although… he’d love to
see that his sister Rachel’s okay in the future. Tough one!
…spend a week in the mountains or a week
on the beach?
on the beach?
Jill: Beach. Hands down,
no question. J
I love, love the beach.
no question. J
I love, love the beach.
Olivia: I have to say
mountains for Olivia because she’s moved to Texas in the book and is missing
her Rocky Mountains.
mountains for Olivia because she’s moved to Texas in the book and is missing
her Rocky Mountains.
Cash: Mountains. I don’t
see Cash as a beach sort of guy. J
see Cash as a beach sort of guy. J
…unearth secrets or bury lies?
Jill: I’m going to say
unearth secrets. And on that note, I must digress into a story. When my son was
around four years old, he had a week when he wasn’t eating very well. I wasn’t
sure what was wrong, but when it came to meal time, he just wouldn’t eat. He
wasn’t hungry. At the end of that week, I found the wrappers for some Z bars
under his train table. When I started looking, I found wrappers stashed
everywhere in our basement. He’d eaten almost a whole Costco-sized box of bars
over a few days. While I was laughing inside, we had to work and work to get him
to tell us the truth. He actually got disciplined more for lying more than he
did taking the bars. I always tell my kids they’ll be in more trouble if they
lie than if they tell the truth. (Me here: That is our rule too!)
unearth secrets. And on that note, I must digress into a story. When my son was
around four years old, he had a week when he wasn’t eating very well. I wasn’t
sure what was wrong, but when it came to meal time, he just wouldn’t eat. He
wasn’t hungry. At the end of that week, I found the wrappers for some Z bars
under his train table. When I started looking, I found wrappers stashed
everywhere in our basement. He’d eaten almost a whole Costco-sized box of bars
over a few days. While I was laughing inside, we had to work and work to get him
to tell us the truth. He actually got disciplined more for lying more than he
did taking the bars. I always tell my kids they’ll be in more trouble if they
lie than if they tell the truth. (Me here: That is our rule too!)
Olivia: Bury lies. She
definitely doesn’t want her past found out!
definitely doesn’t want her past found out!
Cash: Definitely unearth
secrets. He’s not a fan of lies of any sort and would rather hear the truth.
secrets. He’s not a fan of lies of any sort and would rather hear the truth.
Thanks for playing,
ya’ll! Now, Jill, tell us what inspired this story?
ya’ll! Now, Jill, tell us what inspired this story?
Before I became a stay
at home mom, I worked at a crisis pregnancy center. Shame is so prevalent, and
I wanted to write a story of a woman starting over hoping to leave the past
behind, eventually realizing that she doesn’t need to because grace covers
everything.
at home mom, I worked at a crisis pregnancy center. Shame is so prevalent, and
I wanted to write a story of a woman starting over hoping to leave the past
behind, eventually realizing that she doesn’t need to because grace covers
everything.
What are you working on now?
I’m working on a second
book to submit to Love Inspired. It’s about the younger sister in this
book—Lucy. Her story is about learning to accept help, and I have to say, she’s
been a fun character to write.
book to submit to Love Inspired. It’s about the younger sister in this
book—Lucy. Her story is about learning to accept help, and I have to say, she’s
been a fun character to write.
What is your story about?
Raising his orphaned
teenage sister isn’t easy for Texas rancher Cash Maddox. The girl tests his
parenting—and patience—at every turn! But when he asks new teacher Olivia
Grayson for help with his sister’s grades and attitude, Cash realizes he’s
facing the toughest trial of all. He made a promise that he wouldn’t date and
get distracted from his mission of being a good father figure. Yet Olivia’s
quick wit is drawing him unexpectedly closer to the caring beauty every day.
Could it be time to make a new vow…one that’ll last a lifetime?
teenage sister isn’t easy for Texas rancher Cash Maddox. The girl tests his
parenting—and patience—at every turn! But when he asks new teacher Olivia
Grayson for help with his sister’s grades and attitude, Cash realizes he’s
facing the toughest trial of all. He made a promise that he wouldn’t date and
get distracted from his mission of being a good father figure. Yet Olivia’s
quick wit is drawing him unexpectedly closer to the caring beauty every day.
Could it be time to make a new vow…one that’ll last a lifetime?
Jill Lynn writes
contemporary inspirational romance for Harlequin Love Inspired, with her first
book, Falling for Texas, available now. She has a Bachelor’s degree in
Communication from Bethel University and is a member of American Christian
Fiction Writers. In 2013, Jill won the ACFW Genesis award. She lives in
Colorado with her husband and two young children and has a penchant for great
books, boots, and thrift stores.
contemporary inspirational romance for Harlequin Love Inspired, with her first
book, Falling for Texas, available now. She has a Bachelor’s degree in
Communication from Bethel University and is a member of American Christian
Fiction Writers. In 2013, Jill won the ACFW Genesis award. She lives in
Colorado with her husband and two young children and has a penchant for great
books, boots, and thrift stores.
Connect
with her at Jill-Lynn.com
with her at Jill-Lynn.com
Or on
Twitter: https://twitter.com/JillLynnAuthor
Twitter: https://twitter.com/JillLynnAuthor
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JillLynnAuthor
Instagram: http://instagram.com/jilllynnauthor/
Lakeside Redemption
Do you believe this? I do. What a beautiful quote from my friend Lisa Jordan’s newest release, Lakeside Redemption.
“Can a woman
forget her nursing child,
And not have compassion on the
son of her womb?
Surely they may forget,Yet I will not forget you.
See, I have inscribed you on the palms of
My hands;…” Isaiah 49:15-16 NKJV
forget her nursing child,
And not have compassion on the
son of her womb?
Surely they may forget,Yet I will not forget you.
See, I have inscribed you on the palms of
My hands;…” Isaiah 49:15-16 NKJV
God’s love for us is intense. So intense that He’s carved our names into His palms. He can’t uncarve them. He doesn’t forget us, even when we feel like He has.
“So,
what do you think? With God on our side like this, how can we lose? If God
didn’t hesitate to put everything on the line for us, embracing our condition
and exposing himself to the worst by sending his own Son, is there anything
else he wouldn’t gladly and freely do for us? And who would dare tangle with
God by messing with one of God’s chosen? Who would dare even to point a finger?
The One who died for us—who was raised to life for us!—is in the presence of
God at this very moment sticking up for us. Do you think anyone is going to be
able to drive a wedge between us and Christ’s love for us? There is no way! Not
trouble, not hard times, not hatred, not hunger, not homelessness, not bullying
threats, not backstabbing, not even the worst sins listed in Scripture:
what do you think? With God on our side like this, how can we lose? If God
didn’t hesitate to put everything on the line for us, embracing our condition
and exposing himself to the worst by sending his own Son, is there anything
else he wouldn’t gladly and freely do for us? And who would dare tangle with
God by messing with one of God’s chosen? Who would dare even to point a finger?
The One who died for us—who was raised to life for us!—is in the presence of
God at this very moment sticking up for us. Do you think anyone is going to be
able to drive a wedge between us and Christ’s love for us? There is no way! Not
trouble, not hard times, not hatred, not hunger, not homelessness, not bullying
threats, not backstabbing, not even the worst sins listed in Scripture:
They
kill us in cold blood because they hate you.
We’re sitting ducks; they pick us off one by one.
kill us in cold blood because they hate you.
We’re sitting ducks; they pick us off one by one.
None of
this fazes us because Jesus loves us. I’m absolutely convinced that
nothing—nothing living or dead, angelic or demonic, today or tomorrow, high or
low, thinkable or unthinkable—absolutely nothing can get
between us and God’s love because of the way that Jesus our Master has embraced
us.” Romans 8:36-39 MSG
this fazes us because Jesus loves us. I’m absolutely convinced that
nothing—nothing living or dead, angelic or demonic, today or tomorrow, high or
low, thinkable or unthinkable—absolutely nothing can get
between us and God’s love because of the way that Jesus our Master has embraced
us.” Romans 8:36-39 MSG
Nothing can keep us from God’s love. What I love so much about fiction is while the characters and even the setting might be pretend, the message is truth. It’s hope. It’s grace. And it can help us see God in a way we didn’t before! So I encourage you to pick up Lisa’s book either online or any in bookstore (they’ll only be in paperback on shelves this month then you’ll have to order it as an ebook or a paperback online).
Here’s a peek!
 |
| Buy the book! |
Zoe James is starting over. She’s worked hard to get past
the foolish mistakes that landed her in trouble four years ago. Now the young
mom is back in Shelby Lake and ready to reconnect with her son. When she bumps
into old friend Caleb Sullivan and his two adorable girls, she sees the
possibility of a happy future. Caleb has always secretly loved Zoe, but her
turbulent past brings up tough memories of his own. As they spend time together
training his girls’ new puppy, Zoe and Caleb will learn that if they can
forgive themselves, they might have a chance at a new life— and new
love—together.
the foolish mistakes that landed her in trouble four years ago. Now the young
mom is back in Shelby Lake and ready to reconnect with her son. When she bumps
into old friend Caleb Sullivan and his two adorable girls, she sees the
possibility of a happy future. Caleb has always secretly loved Zoe, but her
turbulent past brings up tough memories of his own. As they spend time together
training his girls’ new puppy, Zoe and Caleb will learn that if they can
forgive themselves, they might have a chance at a new life— and new
love—together.
 |
| Visit @lisajordan on twitter, facebook, and her website! |
If you were sitting in one of those chairs on the cover of the book, who would you be sitting next to and what would you be chatting about?
This is TOO Much Fun!
Hello friends! I’m hanging out over at Melissa Tagg’s virtual home today and answering some of her fun questions about my FREE Christmas novella. She’s so hilarious and it’s going to be a good time, so pop over by clicking HERE! Let the fun commence.
Sign up for my newsletter and receive the Christmas novella in your inbox and for FREE as a big thank you! And if you’ve read it and enjoyed it, I’d love for you to share about it on your social media sites!
See you over there!
