Win 40+ Love Inspired Romances and a Kindle Fire!

Hello lovely readers of Love Inspired books, Terri Reed here, sharing with you a fun promotion some of the Love Inspired Authors are doing. Click on the link below to enter the giveaway.
There are so many wonderful authors and books that could be yours. My offering is Murder Under the Mistletoe, my November 2015 Christmas suspense.

https://www.booksweeps.com/enter-win-40-love-inspired-romances/?mc_cid=4ec9993fc9&mc_eid=b4760e7612

A Gift for Christmas!

Hello there, Terri Reed here with a great gift idea for Christmas!  Several of the Love Inspired Authors have stories and recipes in this collection.
But the best part...the proceeds go to BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS
Help us donate to this worthwhile non-profit organization that serves the needs of children by snagging a copy for yourself and anyone else who might enjoy 22 short romances and 22 recipes.  You might even find something new to make for Christmas!

P.S. The authors would love to hear how you like the stories and recipes. Reviews are most appreciated.

P.S.S We're doing a Goodreads Giveaway

https://www.goodreads.com/giveaway/show/118578-a-recipe-for-romance-a-collection-of-22-inspirational-stories-and-recip

P.S.S.S Scroll down for an excerpt of the book by Lyn Cote

Here's the links for your convenience to purchase the book

Kindle version: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00QEE7Z18/

Amazon version: http://www.amazon.com/dp/1942505000/ 

B&N

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-recipe-for-romance-lenora-worth/1120836460?ean=2940149958740

iBooks

https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/a-recipe-for-romance/id946769889?mt=11

Kobo

http://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/a-recipe-for-romance

Or, if you'd like to order through the Createspace store, the royalty is approx $5 to the charity: https://www.createspace.com/5124721 

Excerpt from Second Chance in the Northwoods by Lyn Cote

Heading to a job interview at 9 a.m., through the thick green forests of far northern Wisconsin to Rhinelander, Carrie couldn’t shake the feeling that people were watching.

She knew it wasn’t true. But she was hiding the truth, afraid someone would find out. She turned off Highway 47. Ahead, she saw the sign along Lincoln Street for MIKE’S AUTO REPAIR. Her heart pounded at the thought of what this job could mean for her. If she didn’t find work, and soon, she wouldn’t be able to stay here near . . . She slowed.

A horn beeped behind her, prompting her to turn in. She pulled up to the area near the door. Already the sound of tools emanated from within. Two bay doors stood open. She got out of the car, pressing down her bad case of nerves. Most of the time she felt as if she’d accomplished a lot in the past two years. Now that feeling deserted her.

She entered the building. The desk was unattended. Of course. She was here to apply for the position of receptionist and parts manager. She shifted, uneasy about what to do. Finally, she walked to the door marked “Shop” and opened it.

The noise level shot up. She stood at the doorway, debating the best way to get someone’s attention. A German shepherd stood up and walked slowly toward her. A guard dog? Her alarm rose.

Then the power drill, or whatever it was, stopped. A mountain of a man – Mike? –climbed out from beneath a vehicle on the hoist. She gasped, and her back bumped against the door.

In worn jeans and a gray T-shirt with “Mike’s Auto” on it, Mike commanded attention. He moved with a grace she didn’t expect from such a large man. Then she glimpsed his deep-brown eyes, his gentle gaze telling her not to be afraid. Jeannie had assured her that the Becks had lived in this area forever and were good people.

“Hi, I’m Mike Beck. Are you Carrie Baker? Jeannie McClure’s friend?” He wiped his hands on a towel attached to his belt. The dog moved to his side, the animal’s sharp eyes trained on her.

It still pained her that no one knew Jeannie was more than her friend. She cleared her throat. “Yes.”

The man’s large, slightly greasy hand gripped hers and shook it vigorously. The dog woofed once in welcome.

“Glad you could come. I didn’t want to advertise if I could find someone who knew someone. I heard about you when I took Greta to Jeannie’s husband, the vet.”

Greta sat back on her haunches, panting.

Carrie’s head swam with all of those connections. She’d grown up in a large city, feeling invisible, but here it seemed everybody knew everybody.

Then Greta lifted a paw toward her. Carrie automatically shook it, watching the big man beam at his pet.

Mike tried not to stare, but this young woman with long dark hair was so pretty and looked so nervous. “I hear you qualify as an executive assistant?”

Her head bobbed.

“Great! You need to fill out an application and then start work.”

Her eyes widening, Carrie didn’t immediately respond. It must have been tough for her trying to get settled among strangers. The vet’s wife had told him Carrie was shy. Or maybe his size made her nervous like it had others.

“Start?” she squeaked.

“Sure. If you want the job, it’s yours.”

Carrie hid her surprise as best she could and hurried to keep up with her new boss. And that’s how she got the job at Mike’s Auto Repair.

(continues…)

Lyn’s Tart and Cheesy Green Beans

2 tablespoons margarine or butter

2 tablespoons flour

1 teaspoon onion flakes or ¼ onion, chopped

1 teaspoon salt

Pepper to taste

½ cup plain yogurt or sour cream

2/3 cup cottage cheese or ricotta

3 cups fresh green beans, cooked/drained 

½ cup cheddar cheese, grated

1 cup  breadcrumbs

2 slices crisp bacon

Melt butter. Stir in flour, salt, onion, pepper, yogurt (or sour cream) and cottage cheese (or ricotta). Mix well. Heat to bubbling. Stir in green beans and ½ cup breadcrumbs. Pour into sprayed casserole dish. Sprinkle on the rest of the breadcrumbs and cheddar. Crumble bacon over top. Bake in 350-degree oven for 20 minutes. Serves 4.

Macaron anyone?

Terri Reed here talking today about Macarons.  I recently discovered these French confections.  I would never have guessed how much I like them.  This photo is from a local restaurant here in the Portland Oregon area. I ended up taking home six of the flavors. I'm NOT going to eat them in one sitting.  Really, I'm not. :-) and if I keep saying that, maybe I won't.  But I'm on deadline so maybe I will. I picked a few new ones to try (coffee, raspberry, cherry, and blueberry) though Salted Caramel is my favorite, and I do enjoy the Almond and the Lemon as well.  Have you tried a Macaron?
Do you have a favorite flavor?


Out Now in a Store Near YOU!

UNSAFE TERRITORY 

When a mysterious toxin threatens lives and livelihoods near the border between the U.S. and Canada, Dr. Tessa Cleary is called to trace the source. But when the no-nonsense doctor is forced to work with border patrol agent Jeff Steele, she finds the lone wolf's dedication to his job—and country—chipping away at the walls around her heart. Just as Tessa and Jeff are about to uncover the toxin's deadly source, armed thugs kidnap them in the forest. Now they must trust each other to survive before time runs out for everyone. 

Northern Border Patrol: Keeping the U.S.–Canadian border safe

Love Inspired chat tonight!

The monthly Love Inspired readers and writers chat is tonight from 8-10pm EST. I hope you’ll join us!

http://community.harlequin.com/123flashchat/client/

Christmas Traditions

HI, Terri Reed here popping in to say Merry Christmas.  I love this time of year, especially the music.  One of my personal traditions is to buy a new Christmas Album each year.
This year I've bought two.
1)Rod Stewart's Merry Christmas, Baby.  For those of you who grew up in the 80's, you're probably a fan of Rod's smoky voice and unique style. I sure am.  I saw Rod in concert in 89'.

2)MercyMe's Christmas Session.  

I have to admit MercyMe is my all time favorite group. I saw them in concert in 2006.I have every single album they've made including the newest one The Hurt and The Healer.  

Do you have a personal Christmas Tradition?

Did you go to your high school reunions?

Terri Reed here wondering how everyone feels about high school reunions?  In two weeks I'll be heading back to my hometown for my 30th high school reunion.  I went to both  my ten and twentieth.  At my ten, the same friends hung out and everyone seemed pretty much the same as in high school.  At my twentieth,  there were changes.  Babies, expanding waistlines, balding heads, wrinkles starting, careers and marriages to talk about.  Now another ten years have passed by.  I'm both excited and nervous to return.   Excited to see old friends that I haven't seen in ages--some who didn't show up to the others and some who did.  With the advent of Facebook I've reconnected with several people and that's been fun.   We've shared pictures from our past, reminisced about the times we had back then and shared a bit about our lives now.  I'm nervous because...well, I'm not sure.  Maybe the geeky teen in me wonders if I'll fit in, if anyone will want to talk to me, if I'll measure up.  I wasn't a geek in the brainy sense, but more the gangly, red-haired, freckled face shy girl who was always on the fringes.  I was into drama, gymnastics and dance.  I spent my lunch hours running the track or hanging out in the theatre or hanging out with one friend.  I have always done better one on one than in large groups.
So dear friends, tell me about your experience?  Any tips to pass on?

Here's a peek at my upcoming October release--The Doctor's Defender

Do No Harm

As a trauma surgeon, Dr. Brenda Storm saves lives every day. But someone wants her dead.  It starts with the anonymous delivery of poisoned cupcakes.  Now the hospital has hired a bodyguard to protect her 24/7.  At first, Brenda doesn’t think too-handsome Kyle Martin is the right for the job.  Then she discovers his harrowing background—and that Kyle will do anything to keep her safe.  With every attempt on her life, she’s more drawn to the strong and silent man who risks his life for hers.  But their growing feelings could put them both in harm’s way.

Kim Watters here.  Cancer. I shudder every time I hear that word, yet these days its almost as common as breathing. Every time I turn around, I know someone who knows someone with the disease.  As the mother of two young children, I can't even begin to know or comprehend what it would be like to have a child with cancer like my heroine does, and my heart breaks for those parents who do.  I pray daily that God helps us find a cure.

Writing And Father Makes Three gave me the opportunity to explore the complex subject of bone marrow transplants. The stories and testimonials were truly inspirational and humbling at the same time. A portion of the proceeds of this book will be donated to the Be The Match program to defray the costs associated with the testing. Straight from their website: "The National Marrow Donor Program ® (NMDP) and our Be The Match Foundation ® are nonprofit organizations dedicated to creating an opportunity for all patients to receive the bone marrow or umbilical cord blood transplant they need, when they need it."   http://www.marrow.org/

From a personal perspective, one of my dear friends from high school was diagnosed with Large Cell B non-hodgkins Lymphoma and needed to have a bone marrow transplant to put her cancer into remission.  In her honor, I have dedicated this book to her. Today she is in remissionand living life to the fullest.

And Father Makes Three
July 2012
ISBN-13: 978-0373877560
“Your Daughter Needs You.”She’s saved countless lives, yet there’s one person emergency room doctor Elizabeth Randall can’t rescue—her adopted daughter, Jordan. Perhaps meeting her biological father, Blake Crawford, will be the lifeline Jordan needs. The handsome, guarded firefighter takes risks every day. But facing the daughter he never knew—along with lovely Elizabeth—has him thinking about family. With fatherhood thrust suddenly upon him, there’s no way he can turn his back on his sick child. Will working together to give Jordan a second chance at life also lead them to a second chance at love?

Letting Go--Terri Reed

Terri Reed here.  This is a crazy season for our family.   There are only thirty days or so left of school for my kids.  I have a senior who is anxious for it to be over.  Senioritis has hit her hard.   For me, its been an emotional and overwhelming time as we plan for her college education.  She has decided to go aboard to study at Richmond, The American International University in London.  Letting go is going to be hard for me as she and I are very close. 

Does anyone have advice? Can you relate?  

Happy Thanksgiving!

From Sandra Orchard, I'd like to share a quote from Monday's Walk Right In Ministry's blog post:

God "is teaching us that there is a privilege and grand adventure in how life unfolds when it is wrapped within the power, love and grace of Christ’s presence."

No matter whether you are in a valley or on a mountaintop or somewhere in between at this moment, may each of you feel wrapped in God's love in a special way today.

Gail Gaymer Martin's newest release - A FAMILY OF THEIR OWN

Hello from Gail Gaymer Martin.  When I write a series, I find it a challenge, especially when it’s one with a touchy story line. I never know how readers will accept it and so I wait until the letters and reviews come in. The first book in the Dreams Come True series proved a blessing. With 4 stars from Romantic Times, the reader mail, reviews and comments about A Dad Of His Own on Amazon touched my heart.

Similar to Make A Wish Foundation, each story in the Dreams Come True series involves a child dealing with a serious illness, but romance has a happy ending, so you can count on not being disappointed. Writing the series meant spending hours and hours learning about various illnesses that affect children as well as adults. Besides the Internet, I spoke with people who’ve had experiences with these illnesses either with a family member, friend or acquaintance. Searching online, I also found journals of children struggling with these diseases, and I found great courage and hopeful outcomes for many of them. That made my job easier as I worked to give the stories depth but also lighthearted moments that my readers could enjoy. Though the three book series is linked with overlapping characters, each story is complete.

I was thrilled with another 4 stars from Romantic Times for the second book in the series, A Family Of Their Own. A September release, this book will be in stores around August 26. If you’d like to read Kelsey and Lucy’s story, you’ll want to pick up one fast since the books are only in stores for 1 month although they’re available longer through the publisher and always available from the Internet bookstores. Here’s a little about the novel.

FOUR MAKES A FAMILY
With her daughter's health back on track, Kelsey Rhodes counts her blessings. But life is still not easy for the sweet single mom. She craves companionship, yet finds it difficult to trust anyone. Ross Salburg seems like the perfect match for her. The handsome single dad also struggles to keep his daughter healthy. Can Kelsey convince Ross to take a leap of faith and meld their two families into one?

Reader comments:
I just finished your latest book A Family of Their Own. I love how the 2 adults each have a special needs child. I love reading your Love Inspired romance novels. Signed Joan from Ohio

I can tell you did much research before writing this story; it shows throughout the pages. I’ve learned so much from this book. Thank you once again, Gail, for giving your readers another endearing and fulfilling book to read and enjoy. Signed Patsy from Texas


If you’d like to pre-order, click here: A FAMILY OF THEIR OWN

Better Than a Handshake

Pamela Tracy here, and I confess, "I am not shy." I basically like being with people, like meeting new people, and will talk to strangers.

Yet, sometimes I'm in the midst of a group and I'm thinking, "I wish I were somewhere else." Usually that means that no one is talking about my favorite topics. Yes, the Bible is one. My family is another. Also, right up at the top, you guessed it: books! Put me in a group of strangers, and let one of them say, "Did anyone read the latest [insert name of favorite LI author here] and now you've got my attention.

I will walk up to strangers who are reading and say, "What are you reading?" Most eagerly engage and we dish about favorites, not so favorites, and what we intend to read next. Yes, some let me know that all they want is to get back to their books. If that happens, I smile and head back to my own book.

So, here's a cute story. This past week I was at cub camp with my six-year-old. Cub camp is designed for little guys and they actually stay in a cabin and do all the 'camp' things, but Moms get to be in a nearby cabin just in case something happens. I had a blast. My job was to be there 'just in case,' but to know I was to be hands-off.

I spent most of my time reading (Totally cool because I was in the middle of nowhere amidst tall trees and a lake and great weather). One day I actually drove into town. I shopped and then decided to treat myself to lunch. I don't mind eating alone IF I HAVE A BOOK. , I didn't have one. No way could I sit in a restaurant all alone without a book.

I happened to be in a clothing store and mentioned my dilemma to the owner. She immediately lent me her book. We, you guessed it, promptly dished about our favorites, our not so favorites, and what we were going to read next.

I took her book to a restaurant, made it to page 40 (and that author now has a sale in her future because I'll buy the book) and then returned her book.

What a cool way to make a friend.

I took her business card (If you're ever in Prescott, AZ, be sure to go to Just Beadtween Us) and as thanks come this August, I'll be mailing her a copy of my next book.

A bull-riding injury has sent Joel McCreedy crashing—literally—into his tiny Iowa hometown. But the last thing the prodigal son wants is to stay. On top of a bruised head and ego, he has relationships to mend and a reputation to clear. And then there’s lovely Beth Armstrong, his nephews’ teacher, who’s willing to give them all lessons in family and forgiveness. But Joel isn’t the dutiful “family first” man Beth deserves. Or is he? Suddenly, instead of wrangling bulls he’s helping with homework. And instead of craving his next win, he’s determined to be Beth’s once-in-a-lifetime love.

Just think. If everyone was a bookworm, the whole world would be friends.

Spring Inspiration from Gail Gaymer Martin

Welcome to my world.  Being from Michigan, I find weather an adventure, and when I'm trying to work on a novel--especially one set in the spring of the year--the inspiration is appreciated. We've looked too long at snow, cold temperatures, and rain. But the Lord smiled down on us, and spring arrived just in time to inspire me for a new novel proposal set in Holland, Michigan around the time of their renown Tulip Festival.

One thing that inspires me is the magnolia tree outside my office window. The large pink and white blooms take my breath away and I enjoy seeing the many birds who perch on the branches -- cardinals, robins, sparrows, and others -- and listneing to them sing and even tap on my window sill.

I realized the other day that I often set novel openings during the spring. I suppose it's because spring inspires a blossoming romance.

My November release will be different, however, opening in autumn close to Christmas since this will be a Christmas 2-in-1 with Brenda Minton. My short novel, Small Town Christmas will be in the duet book, Christmas Gifts.  I hope you enjoy the autumn/winter setting.

But before the November release, I hope you look for the second book in the Dreams Come True series, A Family of Their Own released in September. This book will be Kelsey's story followed next spring by Ava's story. This will be the third and final book in the series which I've called A Dream Of His Own. (That title could change.)

As I said, welcome to my world and my spring garden. I've been busy planting flowers while trying to write, but it's spring and I'm inspired.  And note I have a great bargain at my house.  Read the little sign in the photo. :  )

Why Bad Things Happen To Good People

Terri Reed here, so last night my daughter was working on an assignment for her Bible class at school and asked me if I knew any scripture that related to why bad things happen to good people. Talk about a difficult question!

Immediately a verse came to mind. I grabbed a Bible off my desk and opened to James 1:2-4. NIV

² Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters,whenever you face trials of many kinds, ³ because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. ⁴ Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

I think we've all grappled with this question at one time or another. Are there any other verses that have helped you in answering this question?

More snow? Really? by Lisa Mondello

Thank God for the Internet! That's all I have to say. I'd have no contact with the outside world otherwise. You see, here in New England we've been clobbered with snow. (If you live anywhere in NE you all know what I'm talking about.) Every time I look out the window I'm blinded by white...if I can see anything at all. The drifts are that high. I can no longer see the log pile in the back yard. It's buried. If I hadn't carved a path in the yard and put my beagle on a chain, I'm sure I'd have lost him in the snow by now. All the drifts are twice as high as he is.

Today it's snowing...again. The news is showcasing many places in my area where roofs have caved in on homes, and businesses. Even the local mall got a scare and closed down for a time to shovel off the roof. (That one got my kids' attention.)

Living in Massachusetts my whole life, I'm used to snow. Just not THIS much snow. The good thing is that the power hasn't gone off, the Interenet is still up, I have a full coffee pot of hot coffee and the kids are in school. (Another blessing since these snow days have been killing my writing schedule.)

Okay, enough complaining from me. Please tell me your snow horror stories. I'll vent with you.


In the meantime, I'll dream for March like I always do each year. My crocuses and daffodils will be poking out beneath the snow and my next Love Inspired Romance will be released. If you're snow bound, you can still order In a Doctor's Arms online at Amazon.com or at eHarlequin.com.

What Draws and Keeps You Reading Love Inspired?

Cheryl Wyatt here. The other day during church small group sharing time, our small group leader asked what it was that first drew us to the church. For me, it was the fact that the worship was so intimate. The lyrics sang directly to God rather than just about Him which taught me to focus more on Him. For some reason that got me thinking about what made me start reading Love Inspireds. Simply put, I know the reads are safe and will not compromise my faith. I love the story worlds and the small town feel of the books.

When I was an aspiring author, I frequented the eharlequin message boards www.steeplehill.com where I met and was mentored by author Margaret Daley (Pictured with me above). Margaret reaches out to so many authors amid her success and she has become one of my closest writer friends. She encourages and inspires me in so many ways. Her books were some of the first LIs that I read. Her hooky writing, sweet settings, spectacular plots and strong characters reeled me in.

I feel so blessed to be a part of a community of authors who so readily reach out to the up and coming authors. Many, many Love Inspired authors encouraged and cheered me along the journey. I'll bet several of them are among your favorites. People such as Margaret and Ginny Aiken. Marta Perry, Debra Clopton, Allie Pleiter and Lenora Worth. I could go on listing names for days. I feel blessed to be a part of the sisterhood that is LI.

So today I'm wondering what first drew you in to reading Love Inspireds? I would especially love to know what KEEPS you reading them?

Is it the clean, Christian content?
The authors' voices?
The small town feel?
The sense of community each book brings?
What else?

I'd really love to know! So post your thoughts in the comment section.

Thanks for sharing!

Big Island Fun

Aloha, Terri Reed here, just returned from a trip to the Big Island of Hawaii. What fun! I've been to Maui, Oahu, Kauai but this was the first time on the big island. There was so much to see and do. Waterfalls galore, beautiful beaches, lava beds and sea turtles.

I went to the southern most point of the US, hiked a mile and a half along a dusty terrain to an amazing cove called green sand beach. In the picture you can't really tell the color of the sand, but up close you definitely see the green hue.

I explored a botanical garden and marvaled at all the interesting and fabulous plants.

I walked on the lava which looked like the top of brownies, slightly shiny with cracks and crevices.

Oh, and the best part was swimming with the sea turtle. I was playing in the water at Hapuna beach when along comes this turtle, motoring within arms length of me not the least bit concerned by the people in the water.

A Recipe to Share

Hi, Terri Reed here and I wanted to share with you a recipe that a dear friend gave me.
This dip was a big hit at a gathering not long ago. I think I ate half the pot myself.

Chile Cream Chees Dip by Penny Love
3/4 cup chopped yellow onions
2 tbsp butter or margarine
8 oz canned stewed tomatoes with just a little juice
4 oz chopped green chiles
8oz cream cheese, cubed
1/3 cup half and half
In skillet cook onion in butter until soft. Add tomatoes and chiles. Cook over medium heat for 10 minutes. Lower heat; blend in cream cheese. Slowly add half and half. Mix well. Heat through. Makes approx. 2 cups.
Serve warm in a crock pot or fondue dish. Goes great with tortilla chips, bread cubes, pita bread, crackers.

Try it and enjoy!

Don't forget to look for Covert Pursuit at a store near you!

Hello everyone, Terri Reed here. Not sure what to blog about today. I find blogging rather hard at times. I mean what do I have to say that would be of interest to anyone? Yes, I write stories, so I obviously have lots to say but that's fiction. In fact, I'm working on my nineteenth book, which is due on March 30th, so maybe that's why I'm staring at the blank blog page with glassy eyes and absolutely no idea of what to say. Hmmmm. Let's see...
Spring is coming, though yesterday after a mostly sunny day it snowed last night.
This coming weekend we observe daylight savings time, which in the fall I am thankful for, gotta love an extra hour of sleep! But in the spring, we lose that extra hour we've become accustomed to. Ugh!
I watched part of the Oscars this last Sunday night. Only part because I forgot it was on. I was disappointed that in the memoriam they didn't honor Farrah Fawcett. I know, I know, she was more of a TV star than a movie star but still...
I thought Sandra Bullock's acceptance speech was very sweet and funny. I like her as an actress. I've heard that the Hurt Locker is a very well done story. One of these days I'll have to rent it. I did see Avatar, though not in 3D--I get motion sick easily. It was a fun and visually exciting movie. I enjoyed UP, though I did cry. I'm such a sap.
In two weeks the Public Library Association is having its convention here in Portland Oregon. I'll be signing in the Romance Writers of America booth on Friday the 26th, right after Christina Dodd http://www.christinadodd.com/(whom I'm a big fan of). Imagine masses of people in line for her that will all wander away when I sit down to sign. LOL.
My newest release coming up in May, COVERT PURSUIT, will be part of a promotional package that Harlequin will be sending out during May through September. I'm excited to see what they do with it.
Over at the Craftie Ladies of Suspense, http://ladiesofsuspense.blogspot.com/ we are doing a St. Patrick's Day continuing mystery. Starting Monday March 8th through the 18th, each day a Love Inspired Suspense Author will post a piece of the story. Its a fun endeavor and a bit challenging. We did a Valentine's Day mystery that was well received. And over at the Craftie Ladies of Romance, http://craftieladiesofromance.blogspot.com/we'll be doing an Easter Romance. Stop on by and check us out.
Well, as I said, I'm in the throes of a deadline so I best get back to it.
Have a blessed week everyone!