Meet author Paige Edwards
Paige Edwards is a Reader’s Favorite Book Award recipient, a Forward INDIES, Whitney, and RONE finalist. Due to her deep British roots, Paige’s romantic suspense novels are often set in the UK, and she hops the pond whenever she gets the chance. When she needs a break from writing, she serves as president of her area’s Interfaith Community Council, gardens, bikes battlefields, and kayaks near her home in Virginia.
Tell us about your newest book.
Lady Elise Henderson lives two separate lives. At home in Scotland, she’s the titled daughter of the Marquess of Roxbury, an heiress in her own right. In London, however, she’s Elise Taylor, a top MI6 operative for the “home office.” But when a devastating accident threatens to end her career, Elise is left with far too much time for self-reflection and the regret of a decision made long ago that features one man: fellow MI6 agent Harry Benson.
Harry Benson, the son of servants, has loved Elise for the better part of a decade. But life took them on separate journeys until their worlds converged once more. An immediate assignment to the Scottish Borders leaves Harry little time to make provisions for his small, rambunctious son, Sammy. Harry knows only one person he can rely on for the boy’s care—Elise. When Elise brings Sammy to her ancestral estate, she never imagines a nemesis from her past looms in the shadows, hungry for revenge. Stalked at every turn, Elise and Harry discover that fighting their feelings for one another is futile, but can they survive long enough to get another shot at true love?
What inspired you to write Facing the Enemy?
When I finished Danger on the Loch, many of my readers wanted to know what happened to Harry and Elise. Until then, I hadn’t considered writing their story. Naturally, their questions spurred all sorts of ideas, and Facing the Enemy (the first novel in my Roxbury Heirs series) is the result.
How would you describe this book to someone in a 30-second blurb?
It’s a second-chance romance between two MI6 agents set in Scotland. While on medical leave, Agent Elise Taylor discovers that the man who killed her former MI6 partner is hunting her to exact his revenge.
What genre do you focus on?
I grew up reading Mary Stewart, Victoria Holt, Phyllis A. Whitney, and Helen McInnes, so I naturally gravitated toward romantic suspense and mystery genres.
Why do you write?
I’ve always had stories swirling inside my head, and I love to figure out twisty plots when I’m reading or watching TV. But the main driving factor that pushed me toward publication was to draw readers closer to God (in a non-preachy way), to inspire and uplift them via the character’s personal journey.
Who is your main character, and how did you choose that name?
I generally craft two main characters to provide greater scope to the type of stories I write. In Facing the Enemy, Lady Elise Henderson’s (aka MI6 Agent Elise Taylor) surname is one of my Scottish family names, and Elise came from my daughter-in-law’s sister.
What is your work schedule like when you’re writing a book?
After my early am devotional, I plunk myself down at the computer and write until I reach my word count for the day.
What is the hardest part of being an author?
Plotting. Why? I love to create characters and settings, but plotting takes me a while. My stories demand two full arcs (romance and suspense/mystery), then I braid them together into one complete story.
What’s the best part of your author’s life?
When a box of newly printed books arrives in the mail. Why? Up until then, it isn’t real. Even now, looking at the books on my shelf is a bit surreal.
What’s one thing your readers should know about you?
I have a legitimate title in Scotland. When the hubs and I hop the pond, I’m the Lady Paige Edwards. Don’t be impressed. We own a historic property that came with the title. When we sell the place, the title goes with it. It’s a fun talking point but nothing more. Most peeps in the UK (except royals and a few others) don’t use them.
How have you changed or grown as a writer?
I’ve learned so much since I first started writing. My goal is to improve something in each novel. To ensure that my writing doesn’t stagnate, I regularly attend writer’s conferences, check out ACFW’s online classes, and meet with my critique groups.
What is your favorite pastime?
Hillwalking through Scotland (when it’s not pouring rain). The air is cool and almost sweet, the perfect conditions for climbing Munros and taking in the spectacular views.
Do you have other books?
I do. My novels can be found on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Seagull Book, and Deseret Book. I’ve even seen a few at Costco from time to time.
What are you working on now?
I’m revising a book in my Pressley-Coombes series and have started book two in my Roxbury Heirs series (Elise’s sister’s story). I also have a novella coming out in an anthology on October 1st called Sinister Secrets.
Website: authorpaigeedwards.com
Link to book:
Social media links:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorpaigeedwards/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/18839862.Paige_Edwards
Facebook readers group: Paige’s Page Pals
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/paige-edwards
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorpaigeedwards
Amazon Page: https://www.amazon.com/Paige-Edwards/e/B07N44C65Z?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1655385847&sr=8-1
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paige-edwards-a3a38841/
Meet author Stacy T. Simmons
Stacy T. Simmons writes uplifting fiction that delights the reader’s romantic sensibilities. Thirty-four years of marital bliss is a great contributor. She is a mom of two grown children, and she and her family have a menagerie of pets she likes to call “Noah’s Ark.” You can find her writing her next manuscript with a piece of dark chocolate and a cup of coffee nearby.
Tell us about your newest book.
A Promise for Faith is a story about a woman at the crossroads of her life, she faces some interesting choices in her career steps. One of which connects her with an old flame from her past.
What genre do you focus on?
I write contemporary romance—there’s something exciting about writing a story which could happen during the time we are here on earth.
Who is your main character, and how did you choose that name?
Faith Fuller is a chef, her nickname, “Faithful.” Portrays the journey she undergoes in her own life.
What is your work schedule like when you’re writing a book?
I’m an educator, so my summers are super busy behind my desk trying to write a book in a few months.
What is the hardest part of being an author?
Juggling work and family life. Sometimes I must put off participating in fun weekend activities to achieve my writing goals. Thank the Lord my sweet husband is so understanding and patient.
What’s one thing your readers should know about you?
I’m an avid reader across all genres, I love a suspense or time-slip novel as much as a beautiful romance or historical fiction story.
How have you changed or grown as a writer?
Six years ago, when I began to write, I knew the barest of things about actually constructing a novel. In attending both local ACFW-DFW meetings and ACFW conferences my “writing craft toolbox” has strengthened. Within any field of occupation, there’s always more to learn, and I’m an eager student.
What is your favorite pastime?
Spending time with family and friends, swapping stories, and sharing laughter.
Do you have other books? We’d love to know.
This fall, I have a Christmas castle novella coming out which is part of a collection. As of yet, the title has not been announced. In January of 2023, the second in my Briar Creek Love series will arrive.
What are you working on now?
Currently, I’m working on book three in the Briar Creek Love series, and have my eye on another story to create after this one is finished.
Website: https://www.stacytsimmonsauthor.com/
Link to book: https://www.amazon.com/Promise-Faith-Briar-Creek-Love/dp/1951839471/
Social media links:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stacy.t.simmons/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/stacytsimmons?lang=en
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stacy.t.simmons/?hl=en
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/stacyts/_saved/
Blog: https://www.fueledbyfaithandcaffeine.com/
Meet author Donnah Cole
Donnah Cole is a curious author who loves exploring different themes and motifs. She dives headfirst into the research, production, and fine-tuning of the stories felt most worthy of sharing. Donnah holds a Master of Arts degree in Health Education & Promotion from East Carolina University, a Bachelor’s degree in Health Information Management from Western Carolina University. She enjoys spending time with family, serving others in her church, playing the piano, and quilting.
Tell us about your newest book.
The Monarch Fields is the sequel to The Popcorn Fields, a two-book faith-based romance series set between Iowa and Nebraska. The romantic saga begins with Taryn McPherson attempting to focus on her teaching career and healing from her past. Her intentions are challenged when Rhett Huxley, a Nebraskan cowboy, returns for summer employment on her family’s Iowan farm. Rhett aspires to repay his college debt and answer God’s call to serve as an international missionary. The last thing he needs is a beautiful distraction. Will past regrets, diverging life paths, and the return of one sinister man impede their chance at love?
What genre do you focus on?
My focus is on Christian Inspirational Romance because I love to develop realistic romantic stories which incorporate godly precepts.
Why do you write?
My number one writing objective is to draw readers closer to God.
Who is your main character, and how did you choose that name?
My main characters in The Monarch Fields are Taryn and Rhett. The names have a romantic feel to them. I discovered Taryn’s name by watching a young violinist on YouTube, and Rhett’s name has been on a personal list of favorite names I have saved through the years.
What is your work schedule like when you’re writing a book?
I work a full-time job in healthcare, so my writing schedule is probably a couple of hours per day. Lord willing, upon retirement from healthcare, I hope to spend more time writing.
What is the hardest part of being an author?
The hardest part of being a writer is not so much the writing process, but rather revolves around marketing my books. Being an Indie author makes this task quite challenging. It requires a mindset of perseverance and patience. There is no success without hardship.
What’s the best part of your author’s life?
The best part of my author’s life is the joy found through fulfilling God’s call to write and seeing the creativity (which He provides) flow forth.
What’s one thing your readers should know about you?
God did not wake me up today to be average.
What is your favorite pastime?
Besides writing, I love to sew/quilt (inherited from my Grandmother Alma).
Do you have other books? We’d love to know.
My writing journey began many years ago when I would submit short stories to Faithwriters.com. I was blessed to have two stories, Too Late to Say and The MartinDell Motel published by Faithwriters in Journey of Faith and Come Away with Me. I then self-published two children’s books, Paddle On and I Wonder before moving back into the adult realm, self-publishingThe Popcorn Fields and The Monarch Fields.
What are you working on now?
I am in the beginning stages of writing my third romance novel which will be set in the beautiful Western North Carolina mountains, my homeplace.
Website: http://donnahmcole.net
Link to book: https://amzn.to/3wVBy8G
Social media links:
IG: https://www.instagram.com/donnahmcole/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/Donnah-M-Cole-102496818802203
Peyton’s Promise: Sign Language at its Best
Have you ever enjoyed a secret sign of love with someone? Peyton and Patrick did. Here’s an excerpt from Peyton’s Promise. Hope you’ll grab a copy and enjoy…the rest of the story!
As Mrs. Milton returned to the kitchen, Patrick caught Peyton’s eye, tapping his hand to his chest, his middle and ring finger pressed to his palm.
She sucked in a breath. As a child, he’d taught her that sign—the sign for “I love you”—and used it whenever she found herself in a pickle. When she’d asked why, he’d said it was a sign of solidarity, of friendship.
Friendship … and only friendship.
Is that what it was now? If so, why did her heart speed up, her face flush, and a lump in her throat threaten to cut off her oxygen? She gave a nod of thanks and focused on her fish dinner.
Since arriving on the island, she’d sensed his feelings were different. But she couldn’t figure out how. One moment, he disapproved of her. The next, he’d show his affection.
And her emotions? They staggered around like a drunken sailor.
Peyton ate a few bites despite her lack of appetite. One by one, the staff left the table. She nibbled at her bread. She’d wait until they were all gone so she didn’t have to see their stares or listen to their opinions of her.
“Let’s take a walk.” Patrick stood behind her, ready to pull out her chair and escort her out of her humiliation.
She patted her lips, set her napkin on the table, and rose. “Thank you, sir.”
In silence they left the room, walking along the path and down the steps toward the lagoon. Keeping a circumspect distance, they waited until they were far from any other staff member before speaking.
“Thank you, Patrick, for trying to defend me. That woman has it out for me, though I don’t know why.”
“You’re different, and that threatens her control. She wants to be the general of her troops who all align with her rules, her dictates, even her thinking. You’re outside of that in every way, and it drives her to distraction.”
Peyton giggled as she stopped to admire a huge freighter passing the island. The setting sun hovered low on the horizon as crickets took up their noisy goodnight ritual.
Meet author Kathy Collard Miller
Kathy Collard Miller is still amazed at God’s work in delivering her from her abusive anger and then opening doors to share her story through writing and speaking. She is the author of fifty-nine books including Heart of Courage: Daughters of the King Bible Study Series. She has spoken in nine foreign countries and over thirty US states. She and her author husband, Larry, are parents, grandparents, co-authors, and lay counselors who live in Boise, Idaho.
Tell us about your newest book.
Heart of Courage is a ten lesson women’s Bible study with write-in questions along with commentary giving intriguing background information for the text. Each lesson delves into different areas of life where courage is needed, including serving in family & church, standing against unbiblical opinions, facing temptation, representing God and opposing evil. Also, how Jesus was courageous. This study is perfect for individual study and groups.
What inspired you to write Heart of Courage?
I tend to be a people pleaser and a more timid person. I knew God promised He would give courage to His people for the assignments He gives them. I wanted to have that courage in my life so that I could serve and represent Him with greater boldness and confidence. What better way to study courage than to write a Bible study which could also be added to the other Bible studies in my “Daughters of the King Bible Study Series.”
How would you describe this book to someone in a 30-second blurb?
Today more than ever, we need greater confidence and boldness to represent God in our family, church, community, and through social media. We know God promises He will give us courage but exactly what does that mean? This women’s Bible study examines how God empowered biblical characters to take ahold of that confidence and also apply biblical principles for wisdom in responding to life’s challenges.
What genre do you focus on?
Nonfiction Christian living including spiritual growth, Bible studies, commentaries and compiled books.
Why do you write?
Ever since I first tried to write a novel in middle school, I sensed a love for words and expression. I loved sitting at my roll top desk and writing down my thoughts and ideas. I still have the autobiography I wrote in middle school for a class assignment. Little did I know God was developing my skills which also included being editor of my high school newspaper, for which I wrote my first column. I became a Christian at age 18. After 7 years of marriage, God delivered me from my abusive anger and healed our dysfunctional marriage. Then He opened doors for me to share at my church’s young mom’s group and then at other churches. He also led me to write my story in an article and then in my first book (now updated and titled No More Anger: Hope for An Out of Control Mom). Since then, through my personal Bible study and God’s continuing sanctification of my relationship with Him, I write about what God is teaching me even after walking with Him for over 5 decades.
What is your work schedule like when you’re writing a book?
I’d rather be at my desk writing than almost anywhere else—except being with my two grandchildren. Choosing to write isn’t hard and I always have more ideas than time will allow.
What is the hardest part of being an author?
I personally love to write and have a harder time being involved in marketing. I’m not a natural artist so my efforts at creating motivational and effective materials is the most challenging for me. Thankfully, God has provided several capable people to help me over the years.
What’s the best part of your author’s life?
Receiving feedback from readers is a highlight. My first article telling my story came out in 1978 and my first book telling my story came out in 1984. In those days—long ago—there was only US mail, not email, etc. I remember getting letters from many places in the world, including The Sultanate of Oman. Who would have expected that?
And then much later, I had opportunities of connecting with women whose children are now grown, and they would tell me how my books and speaking helped them become a better mother. Of course, all these wonderful things are bonuses. I’m still, though, hoping that I will one day walk in a public place like an airport and see someone reading one of my books. I can’t wait to interrupt her and say, “Hi. I’m the author of that book. Would you like me to autograph it?” I don’t know if that will happen but I hope so.
What’s one unusual fact about you?
When I’m asked this question, it’s fun to pick from two possible answers: I’ve sky jumped out of a plane (tandem, of course). The other is my first epileptic seizure was at a patio restaurant at the base of The Parthenon in Athens, Greece, when I was 66 years old. I’m so grateful I received excellent care from Greek doctors.
Do you have other books? We’d love to know.
Thank you for asking! I can’t name all 59 but here are the most recent:
- God’s Intriguing Questions: 40 Old Testament Devotions Revealing God’s Nature (co-authored with my husband, Larry)
- God’s Intriguing Questions: 60 New Testament Devotions Revealing Jesus’s Nature (co-authored with my husband, Larry)
- Pure-Hearted: The Blessings of Living Out God’s Glory
- Never Ever be the Same: A New You Starts Today (co-authored with my husband, Larry)
- No More Anger: Hope for an Out of Control Mom
What are you working on now?
I’m now working on the next book in my “Daughters of the King Bible Study Series.” It will be on marriage. Heart of Courage is the 5th book in the series and the one on marriage will be #6. There will be a total of 12 books in that series. The topics of the published studies are prayer, women of the Bible, the Proverbs, and friendship.
Website: www.KathyCollardMiller.com
Link to book: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1649495137/
Social media links: access them at https://linktr.ee/kathycollardmiller
Book Tour fun
I just returned from my annual book tour in the Thousand Islands, and, as always, it filled my soul to the full, not just because I sold out of my books and met so many wonderful fans, but also because I got to spend time with “kindred spirits,” fellow River Rats who love the St. Lawrence River and the Thousand Islands as much or more than I do.
There’s something so special about folks who love the river and the islands. Even on a rainy Monday afternoon, dozens of happy readers drifted into the Little Bookstore in Clayton. On Tuesday, my cousin, Julie and I went to the Thousand Island Park on Wellesley Island for a book talk and signing under the shade of a large oak with the summer breeze keeping us cool.
On Wednesday, browsers in Michael Ringer Gallery scooped up books to match their excitement of the river, and that evening, a boat with sixty folks cruised to Calumet Island for a tour, barbecue, and book signing with me. What a joy that was!
To cap off the week, ten authors met at the Cornwall Brothers Museum in Alexandria Bay for a book talk and signing. Such fun!
Here are a few pictures to enjoy:
