Interview with Shirley Raye Redmond

An award-winning writer and frequent conference speaker, Shirley Raye Redmond is the author of three inspirational novels, PRUDENCE PURSUED, VIPER’S NEST, and AMANDA’S BEAU, as well as two dozen children’s books. Shirley Raye holds an M.A. in literature and teaches part time through the Institute of Children’s Literature. She has been married to her college sweetheart for forty-five years. They live in New Mexico and are blessed with two grown children and four adorable grandchildren.

Backcover copy of Courageous World Changers: Meet women who have used their God-given talents to live out their faith to the fullest. They come from a variety of backgrounds, eras, and ethnicities, but each one has answered the Lord’s call on their life in bold and innovative ways.

Children of all ages will be inspired by the stories of

• Corrie ten Boom—activist, author, and Holocaust survivor
• Laurie Hernandez—gymnast who won both gold and silver medals in her sport
• Florence Nightingale—health care reformer
• Madeline L’Engle—author of children’s literature
• Mother Teresa—missionary and winner of the Nobel Peace Prize

These inspiring profiles will captivate kids’ imaginations and encourage them to discover their own gifts and how they can use them to glorify God.  

These and the 45 other female spiritual role models featured in this book have made a profound impact on the world around them, and in many cases changed the course of history. Strong, smart, and sometimes outspoken, these women are tremendous examples of God’s love in action.

Heidi here. Shirley, congratulations on CourageousWorld Changers! Tell us what prompted you to write this book?

I had just finished reading 7 Women and the Secret of Their Greatness by Eric Metaxes. The seven Christian women profiled in the book lived their faith boldly, and I was so inspired by their biographies.  I made a comment to my husband how I would love to write a book like this for girls. Shortly after that, my agent contacted me saying Harvest House was looking for such a book for kids. She wanted to know if I’d like to submit a book proposal. So I did. I want girls to see—in the words of Christian convert Pandita Ramabai that, “A life committed to Christ has nothing to fear, nothing to lose, and nothing to regret.”

Who/What spurs you to write? Where do your story and character ideas come from?

I have always wanted to write from the time I was 12-year-old. I had my first newspaper article published when I was still in high school. Ideas come from everywhere. The seed for my first novel, Stone of the Sun (romantic suspense) sprouted while I was watching a re-enactment of the shoot-out at the OK Corral in Tombstone, Arizona. Pigeon Hero! (Simon & Schuster) came to life after I watched a special about World War II messenger pigeons on the History Channel. I keep a recipe box filled with index cards on which I write down ideas—some fictional and others nonfiction, some for books and some for articles, essays or devotions. I’m never at a loss about what to write next. There are plenty of ideas to chose from.

What do you consider the greatest moment of your writing/publishing career?

Oh, that’s so hard to say. Each “first” has been so exciting: my first article, my first novel, my first children’s book (which later became a Weekly Reader selection), my first writing award, signing with my first literary agent. When Lewis & Clark: A Prairie Dog for the President (Random House) was chosen to be a Children’s Book of the Month club selection, I was over the moon. The first time I received a hefty 5-figure offer for textbook rights for one of my children’ books, I did a happy dance in the living room—literally. Even receiving my first fan letter was a thrill. Every first has been a blessing to me.

Congratulations on your great publishing success! Time for a fun question: You are alone and stranded on a desert island and can have ONE food product and ONE drink, what would they be?

That’s too hard! I love food. But I can’t go very long without iced tea or Dr. Pepper and those little orange cheese crackers that come in a box—I fear I’m addicted to them. J

Well, I must admit I am not a fan of those little orange cheese crackers ~ I'd go with diet pepsi and chocolate (though I could easily survive on cheese, popcorn, and chocolate). But, back to you.....What drew you to these particular fifty women?

Faithful Christian women are salt and light in their communities. They all make a difference. But some have such a vibrant faith that—like a stone tossed into a pond— their influence ripples throughout the world. The fifty women included in this book fall into that category. They were (and are) full of courage because they were (are) persuaded that Jesus is Lord. In the Greek, that’s what faithfulness means—“persuaded.” Faith is not a mushy sentimental feeling. It’s a head thing. The word courage comes from the Old French word corage meaning “heart.”

One cannot have the mental or moral courage to stand up against fear and trials unless one is first fully persuaded there is a reason to do so. In this case, the head rules the heart. How else could Corrie ten Boom survive her ordeal in the Nazi prison camp? If not fully persuaded that Christ was real why would Mahalia Jackson dedicate her singing career to Him? How else could Josephine Butler endure being smeared with dung by an angry mob? Why was Bethany Hamilton brave enough to venture back into the ocean after her shark attack? Their faithfulness should encourage us all.

Thank you for sharing that inspiration for the book. Finally, how do your faith and spiritual life play into the picture and affect your storytelling?

To quote author Madeleine L’Engle, “Jesus was God, who told stories.”  So we follow in His footsteps when we’re creative in this way. With Courageous World Changers, I hope to increase the faith of growing Christians and to inspire hope in the hearts (and minds) of those who struggle. The book contains fifty biographies of amazing, gutsy Christian women. I hope reading about them will encourage others to keep running the good race.

Shirley, thank you for sharing with us! Touch base with Shirley at shirleyrayeredmond.com or Facebook 

A Chat with Author Linda Shenton Matchett

Linda Shenton Matchett writes about ordinary people who did extraordinary things in days gone by. She is a volunteer docent and archivist at the Wright Museum of WWII and a trustee for her local public library. Born in Baltimore, Maryland, a stone’s throw from Fort McHenry, she has lived in historical places most of her life. Now located in central New Hampshire, Linda’s favorite activities include exploring historic sites and immersing herself in the imaginary worlds created by other authors.

A Doctor in the House (part of The Hope of Christmas collection):
Emma O’Sullivan is one of the first female doctors to enlist after President Franklin Roosevelt signs the order allowing women in the Army and Navy medical corps. Within weeks, Emma is assigned to England to set up a convalescent hospital, and she leaves behind everything that is familiar. When the handsome widower of the requisitioned property claims she’s incompetent and tries to get her transferred, she must prove to her superiors she’s more than capable. But she’s soon drawn to the good-looking, grieving owner. Will she have to choose between her job and her heart?

Archibald “Archie” Heron is the last survivor of the Heron dynasty, his two older brothers having been lost at Dunkirk and Trondheim and his parents in the Blitz. After his wife is killed in a bombing raid while visiting Brighton, he begins to feel like a modern-day Job. To add insult to injury, the British government requisitions his country estate, Heron Hall, for the U.S. Army to use as a hospital. The last straw is when the hospital administrator turns out to be a fiery, ginger-haired American woman. She’s got to go. Or does she?

STT: A Doctor in the House is an intriguing story. Where did you get your inspiration?

Linda: My background is in corporate Human Resources, and I am fascinated by the history of women in the workplace. Wives, sisters, daughters, and grandmothers went to work during WWI, but not at the record levels experienced during the second World War. Society was turned upside down when women successfully stepped into jobs previously held by men. When researching another story, I stumbled on a reference to Margaret Craighill, the first female doctor in the U.S. Army Medical Corps. At the same time I saw a documentary about the thousands of country homes requisitioned by the British government for use as orphanages, troop housing, and hospitals. The British people had mixed feelings about U.S. service people. A common expression in England was "overfed, overpaid, oversexed, and over here."

STT: You have written and published ten books with more on the way in 2020. How do you balance your writing career with your other commitments?

Linda: Sometimes not so well-ha! I tend to be organized in all areas of my life, and that trait has served me well in juggling two careers. My full-time job is as the dining services and catering manager at a boarding school, and I invest about twenty-five hours a week to my writing. On most days I get an hour's worth of writing done before work, and one day a week I work at night, so I have almost an entire day to put words on paper. Saturdays are geared for marketing and social media, and Sundays before church are when I write my blog posts. Before I say yes to anything, I check my schedule so I don't double book myself!

STT: With the exception of one of your books, you write historical fiction. What draws you to history and what is your favorite era?

Linda: Despite being married to a software engineer, I am not a very technology-driven person. Having said that, I appreciate modern conveniences such as washers, telephones, and computers. What fascinates me about history is what people accomplished with their own two hands (clearing the land, building homesteads, and raising families). Many of our "modern" inventions got their start decades, even centuries ago. My favorite era is World War II, a time when people pulled together to "do their bit" for the war effort. Whether they wanted to or not, women entered the workforce, often working ten-twelve hours days, sometimes six days a week. In addition, they fed their families under the duress of rationing, they created victory gardens, preserved food, and "made do and mended" their clothes all while wondering if their husbands would return safe and sound.

STT: What is your favorite part of the writing process?

Linda: I love coming up with the story ideas. I'm a planner, so I outline my entire book before beginning to write. I enjoy brainstorming what I can do to and with my characters.

STT: What are your upcoming projects?

Linda: I have lots of irons in the fire. January and February will see the release of books two and three in my Ruth Brown Mystery series, and during March A Love Not Forgotten will be re-released on its own (It was part of a collection). Then in April, May, and June, a trilogy about three sisters will be coming out. I'm very excited to be part of a multi-author project featuring mail-order brides, and my story Dinah's Dilemma will be coming out in August.

STT: Where can people find you on the web?

Linda:

Website/Blog: http://www.LindaShentonMatchett.com

Facebook: http://facebook.com/LindaShentonMatchettAuthor

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/lindasmatchett

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/lindasmatchett

Amazon Author Page: http://amazon.com/linda-shenton-matchett/e/B01DNB54S0

BookBub: http://bookbub.com/authors/linda-shenton-matchett

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author­_linda_matchett

Newsletter Signup (receive a free short story when you sign up):  https://mailchi.mp/74bb7b34c9c2/lindashentonmatchettnewsletter

STT: Thank you for stopping by!

LM: Thank you for having me. Merry Christmas, everyone!

An Interview with Irwin Terrell of Love’s Allegiance

The history of conscientious objectors in the United States reaches back to the Revolutionary War. At that time, exemptions varied by state. During the Civil War conscientious objection was not part of the draft law for the federal side, but individuals could provide a substitute or pay $300 to hire one. In the Confederacy there were few options: moving to northern states, hiding in the mountains, joining the army but refusing to use a weapon, or being imprisoned. World War I saw little improvement to the handing of COs. In fact, when imprisoned they were often subjected to short rations, solitary confinement, and physical abuse.

Fortunately, World War II provided a better solution. Registrants were sent a questionnaire that included a checkoff to indicate opposition to military service because of religious training or belief. Anyone who marked the box then received a more detailed form on which they had to explain the basis for their objection. The Civilian Public Service provided COs an alternative to military service, and from 1941 to 1947 nearly 12,000 draftees served in this manner.

Meet Irwin Terrell, the hero in Love’s Allegiance who is a member of one of the Peace Churches, and as such, a conscientious objector.

LM: How did your family and neighbors react to your decision to apply for conscientious objector status?

Terrell: My dad is very supportive of my decision. We discussed my choice at length, and even though he doesn’t fully understand my reasoning or agree with it, he said that each man is responsible for his own life. He was adamant that I pray about my decision, which of course, I did. I feel that God led me to make the choice, however I don’t believe He leads everyone in that direction. Unfortunately, my friends are not so understanding, and I've been shunned by those who are still here. Townspeople with family serving overseas are also angry at me. I am alternate avoided and scorned. I have also received veiled threats. 

LM: Tell us about where your assignment during the war.

Terrell: I was assigned through the Civilian Public Service to serve at a mental health hospital. In addition to chores around the property such as maintenance and landscaping, I am responsible for attending to the men. I work six days a week and help the patients with self-care as well as occupation and physical therapy. We are hoping to help as many as possible to become self-sufficient.

LM: What are some of the other opportunities for COs to serve, and why didn’t you volunteer for one of them?

Terrell: The U.S. Forest and U.S. Park Services offered positions to help with forest and park maintenance. Even though I’m used to working outside on the farm, I wanted to do something different. There are also a number of experiments being performed in medical schools around the U.S. on men in an effort of discover cures for diseases such as typhus, infectious hepatitis, and malaria because our troops are exposed to these terrible ailments.

LM: Do you feel that taking up arms is wrong across the board or just for you?

Terrell:  Like my dad, I feel that each man must make the decision that is right for him. Unfortunately, we live in a sinful world and sometimes war becomes the only answer to overcoming evil.

LM: What is your favorite part of your job?

Terrell: I’m responsible for the gardens at the hospital. I have a cadre of patients who I work with. Seeing the joy as well as the understanding on their faces as they learn how to plant, maintain, and harvest the crops is gratifying. It is a step toward independence for them.

LM: What are your plans for after the war?

Terrell: My work at the hospital has spurred an interest in continuing to work in the mental health field. I’m not sure where God will lead me, but I believe it will be to minister to others in some way.

LM: I understand there is some possible romance in your life too. What can you tell us about that?

Terrell: You’re talking about Rochelle. My father thinks I have waited too long to marry, so he…uh…decided to give me some help. He contacted a distant cousin of his and they agreed to have her come work for him so we could explore a possible marriage. You’ll have to read how things turn out!

About Love’s Allegiance:

With most U.S. boys fighting for Uncle Sam in far off countries, Rochelle Addams has given up hope for a wedding in her future. Then she receives an intriguing offer from a distant relative to consider a marriage of convenience.

Conscientious objector Irwin Terrell is looking forward to his assignment at Shady Hills Mental hospital to minister to the less fortunate in lieu of bearing arms. At the arrival of the potential bride his father has selected for him, Irwin’s well-ordered life is turned upside down. And after being left at the altar two years ago, he has no interest in risking romance again.

Despite his best efforts to remain aloof to Rochelle, Irwin is drawn to the enigmatic and beautiful young woman, but will time run out before his wounded heart can find room for her?

Inspired by the biblical love story of Rebekkah and Isaac, Love’s Allegiance explores the struggles and sacrifices of those whose beliefs were at odds with a world at war.

Purchase Link: https://amzn.to/2ZXb9JQ

About Linda Shenton Matchett: Linda is an author, speaker, and history geek. A native of Baltimore, Maryland, she was born a stone’s throw from Fort McHenry (of Star Spangled Banner fame) and has lived in historic places all her life. Linda is a member of ACFW, RWA, and Sisters in Crime. She is a volunteer docent and archivist at the Wright Museum of WWII. Find out more about Linda and her books at http://www.LindaShentonMatchett.com. Pick up a free book when you sign up for her newsletter.

Author Interview with Heather Norman Smith

HeatherNorman Smith is a devotional blogger and author of inspirational fiction. Her goal is to use the written word to entertain and encourage, while illuminating the redemptive love of God. She also enjoys writing songs and singing about Jesus.

Heather is proud to be a life-long North Carolinian and aims to present the beauty of the Tar Heel State in her writing. Her home is just outside Winston-Salem, NC, where she lives with one husband, two daughters, one son, two cats, and two dogs. Heather loves words and does not enjoy math, except when it comes to counting blessings.

WhereI Was Planted:

In the spring of 1961, ten-year-old Nate "Weenie" Dooley has a revelation-his father is not a good one.

Inspired by National Geographic, his favorite thing next to the Bible storybook his mother gave him before she died, Nate plans to leave his father and their home in the Smokies to set out on adventure.

When he discovers that his father has left him first, it will take the help of a stray dog, some kind neighbors, a one-man-band, letters from a long-lost-aunt, and a new understanding of God to figure out he isn't really alone.

Will he find that Copper Creek is where he's always belonged? Or will his wanderlust keep him from ever coming back?

In her second novel, Heather Norman Smith demonstrates that love makes a family, and that while fathers may leave, our Heavenly Father is faithful, and He has a plan for all of us. 

Heidi here. Thank you for stopping by to visit with us today, Heather, and congratulations on your newest novel, Where I Was Planted. I read it a few weeks ago and reviewed it here on Thursday. What an amazing and gripping story. Where do your story and character ideas come from?

Thank you! I’m excited to be here!

This book, and my first one, caught me completely by surprise. I don’t remember actually trying to come up with a plot or characters. They were just “there”, and I feel very grateful for that. Although, I’m sure there was some subconscious inspiration at some point.

  

Obviously you are a natural and gifted storyteller, keep writing! What’s your biggest challenge in balancing writing time with your other responsibilities 

I am probably the busiest I’ve ever been in my life right now. And when I don’t get time to write, I feel like part of me is missing. Then I wind up staying up way too late in order to fulfill that need. So, lack of sleep is definitely a challenge.

Ahh, sleep, Never enough. How do your faith and spiritual life play into the picture and affect your storytelling?

Jesus is my purpose, in life and in writing. I enjoy telling stories, but if they didn’t point people to Him in some way, I don’t think I’d have the motivation to finish an entire book.

Well said. Time for a fun question…..You are alone and stranded on a desert island and can have ONE food product and ONE drink, what would they be?

I’ll be somewhat practical and say bread—something I enjoy but also that would be satisfying and I wouldn’t get too tired of eating.

I am addicted to black coffee and Diet Dr. Pepper, so that’s a tough one. For drink, I’ll say coffee. Even if the island were hot, I’d want my coffee.

No chocolate? I don't think I could survive without.....I adore your name. Believe it or not, your name connects with my life…..My father wanted to name me Heather, not Heidi. Obviously he was overruled. And, believe it or not, his given name was Norman. So, every time I come across your name I think of my dear father, whom I miss so very much. 

That’s so cool! And Heidi is a great name, too. Name meanings are very important to me.

What do you consider the greatest moment of your writing/publishing career?

I’m still fairly new to this writing life, but I’d have to say the most special moment was when my dad texted me after he read the first manuscript and told me I was now his favorite author. I know he’s my dad and he has to say things like that, but he’s the most avid reader I know, and just to know he’s proud of me is special.

That is super sweet! Tell us about future books planned..

I have one other completed, yet-to-be-published novel and three in process! So, there will be more coming. I’m just not sure when. I’m actually working on a devotional now that will probably be out before another novel is published.

Heather, thank you for your time today, it was fun! And congratulations again on your newest novel, Where I Was Planted.

Thank you, Heidi!

Meet Pia Hertz, Midwife and Resistance Member

Welcome to Sit-Down Saturday! Today’s guest is midwife Pia Hertz from Linda Shenton Matchett’s latest release Love’s Belief. Grab a “cuppa” of your favorite beverage and listen in to the chat she and Linda had recently…

Linda: Guten Tag, Pia. I’m so glad we have time to sit down together. Why don’t you tell us a bit about yourself?

Pia: I was born and raised in Berlin, Germany, and my mother and I still live there where we are midwives.  I love what we do. It is such a blessing to bring babies into the world. When we aren’t working, Mutti and I take advantage of the museums, art galleries, and theaters in the city.

Linda: Can you tell us a bit about the Nuremburg Laws and how they’ve impacted your practice?

Pia: The laws were enacted back in 1935, but in the last several months the authorities have begun to enforce them more consistently. In addition, Nonna Conti is the head of the Midwives Association, and she holds strong anti-Semitic feelings which have influenced many of the policies she has put in place. Mutti and I are required to report any Jewish births, so the children can be removed from the household. We have chosen to disobey the mandate. We can lose our license…or worse if we’re caught.

Linda: How about that hunky Dieter Fertig? What has it been like getting to know him?

Pia: (blushing) We bumped into each other at the Rossenstrasse protest, and nothing happened at the time, but I remember thinking that he was very good looking. It wasn’t until several weeks later that I happened to go into his shop. He was so charming and helpful to all his customers, especially the elderly ladies. He’s kind and gentle, but has great strength of character. He’s been very brave getting involved with…well, never mind. I shouldn’t say anything.

Linda: What is the Rossenstrasses protest? Were you frightened to get caught in that?

Pia: The protest was not violent. At least not on the side of the protestors. The soldiers periodically threatened to shoot them, but it never happened. Previously exempt from the laws, their Jewish husbands had been rounded up for transport to labor camps. The women gathered in front of the building and were generally silent. Sometimes, they chanted “Give us back our husbands.” After a couple of weeks, the government released the men.

Linda: What is your daily like in Berlin?

Pia: Frankly, it is difficult. Food and many other goods are heavily rationed, and fresh vegetables and fruits are scarce. The government tries to keep up our spirits, but with blackouts and bombing, and more and more young men being called into the Army it is a sad time. There are many Germans who don’t agree with Hitler’s ideas, but it is hard to know who to trust. Neighbors have turned against neighbors, and family against family. Mutti and I live in constant fear of being reported.

Linda: Despite your fear, you continue to help save Jewish babies. Do you ever wonder if you should stop your activities?

Pia: Absolutely not. Mutti and I feel God has called us to use our position as midwives to rescue His people. He works miracles to ensure our success. I can’t be more specific, but there have been multiple times we should have been caught.

Linda: Thank you for spending time with me. What else would you like to share?

Pia: By following God’s plan for our lives, and with His help, we can impact the world around us, one person at a time.

About Love’s Belief: Midwife Pia Hertz and her mother Sabine have been delivering babies long before the Nazis came to power. Now, the Third Reich has implemented mandates that require Jewish babies and other “undesirables” to be killed as part of The Final Solution. Is Pia’s new faith in Christ strong enough to defy the laws of man?

Despite the agony of the injury at the Battle of Drøbak Sound that took his arm, Dieter Fertig is relieved he’s no longer part of Hitler’s army. He returns to Berlin and discovers Jews are being deported by the thousands. When he realizes the Nuremburg Laws require his best friend’s baby girl to be killed, he must find a way to spirit the child out of Germany before the Nazis discover her existence. 

Inspired by the biblical story of Shiprah and Puah, the midwives who saved Jewish babies during Pharaoh’s reign, Love’s Belief shows how one person’s actions can change the world.

Available for pre-order at a special introductory price from these fine retailers:

Amazon: https://amzn.to/2XLl8fU

Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/love-s-belief

Apple Books: https://itunes.apple.com/book/id1459365377

B&N: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/loves-belief

Connect with Linda:

Website/Blog: http://www.LindaShentonMatchett.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/LindaShentonMatchettAuthor

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/lindasmatchett

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/lindasmatchett

Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Linda-Shenton-Matchett/e/B01DNB54S0

BookBub Author Page: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/linda-shenton-matchett

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15140007.Linda_Shenton_Matchett

Newsletter signup (receive the short story Love’s Bloom (prequel to the Wartime Brides series): lindashentonmatchettnewsletter

Character Interview with Warner Gray (based on the novel A Tender Hope by Amanda Cabot)

Readers: we have a giveaway today.....

Amanda Cabot’s dream of selling a book before her thirtieth birthday came true, and she’s now the author of more than thirty-five novels as well as eight novellas, four non-fiction books, and what she describes as enough technical articles to cure insomnia in a medium-sized city.  Her inspirational romances have appeared on the CBA and ECPA bestseller lists, have garnered a starred review from Publishers Weekly, and have been nominated for the ACFW Carol, the HOLT Medallion, and the Booksellers Best awards.  A popular workshop presenter, Amanda takes pleasure in helping other writers achieve their dreams of publication.

As far as Thea Michener is concerned, it’s time for a change. With her husband murdered and

her much-anticipated baby stillborn, there is nothing left for her in Ladreville. Having accepted a position as Cimarron Creek’s midwife, she has no intention of remarrying. So when a handsome Texas Ranger appears on her doorstep with an abandoned baby, Thea isn’t sure her heart can take it.

Ranger Jackson Guthrie isn’t concerned only with the baby’s welfare. He’s been looking for Thea, convinced that her late husband was part of the gang that killed his brother. But it soon becomes clear that the situation is far more complicated than he anticipated—and he’ll need Thea’s help if he’s ever to find the justice he seeks.

Heidi here. Don't you just love that cover?! I've read so many of Amanda Cabot's novels, I adore her writing. A Tender Hope has a unique premise and draw you in. I've interviewed her here for our blog. Amanda recently had the pleasure of chatting with Warner Gray a few days ago and wanted to share that conversation with you. If you remember Warner from A Stolen Heart and A Borrowed Dream, you know that his life hasn’t been easy. Fortunately, there’ve been a lot of changes in Cimarron Creek, and Warner just might have his chance at happiness in ATender Hope.

Amanda: I’m so glad to meet you, Mr. Gray. I know you’re Cimarron Creek’s apothecary, and some of the ladies have told me you’re one of the town’s most eligible bachelors.

Warner: Eligible bachelor? That’s the first I’ve heard that. The truth is, ma’am, I doubt anyone would be interested in marrying me, what with all the trouble my family has had. I’m the only one of the Grays left in town, you know.

Amanda: I’m so sorry to hear that. I imagine you’re lonely without your family. Is that why you offered Jackson Guthrie a room in your house?

Warner: Partly. I am lonely, no doubt about that, but mostly he seemed like a man I’d like to know better, and what better way than having him stay with me? Besides, he’s a better cook than I am. He doesn’t burn the eggs.

Amanda: Other than being able to scramble eggs, what’s he like? Someone said he’s a Texas Ranger.

Warner: Yes, ma’am, he is. I don’t mind telling you that I’m impressed with the Rangers. Those men are braver than I’ll ever be.

Amanda: I suspect you’re selling yourself short.

Warner: Nope, but I tell you, Jackson’s brave and he’s determined. Rumor has it that he’s looking for the Gang of Four. If I were a betting man, I’d bet that he’ll find them, and not a minute too soon. Robbery is bad enough, but I heard they’ve started killing folks. That’s just plain evil. The sooner the Gang is behind bars, the better.

Amanda: I agree. But let’s talk about something more pleasant. I also heard you’re good friends with Nate Kenton. What’s he like?

Warner: If you’re looking for an eligible bachelor, Nate’s your man. The problem is, he falls out of love faster than his goats can eat their supper. ’Course now that we’ve got three new ladies in town, maybe he’ll settle down with one of ’em.

Amanda: I know you’re not, but if you were a matchmaker, which one would you pick for Nate?

Warner: Well, ma’am, I don’t know. The new midwife – her name’s Mrs. Thea Michener – is mighty pretty, but so is that French lady she brought with her. I’m probably bungling it, but she’s called something like Amy.

Amanda: Aimee?

Warner: That’s it. Eh-MAY is real easy on the eyes.

Amanda: You said there were three ladies.

Warner: You’re right. I did. The other is the new schoolteacher, Patience. She’s pretty in her own right, even if she does talk too much, but she’s Nate’s cousin. That means he’ll have to choose between Thea and Aimee. Did I pronounce that right?

Amanda: You did. And now, Mr. Gray, I don’t want you to think I’m a gossip, so I suppose I shouldn’t ask this, but which one of the ladies would you choose for yourself?

Warner: Me? You’re joshing me, ma’am, aren’t you? I’ll never marry.

Amanda: I don’t want to contradict you, Mr. Gray, but men have told me that before, and before I could say “you’re wrong,” I heard wedding bells.

Warner: It won’t happen this time. No, ma’am, it sure won’t. 

Heidi again. Thank you Amanda and Warner, that was fun!

Amanda: I enjoyed it too. I'd like to offer my new novel, A Tender Hope, as a giveaway, US addresses only. Just leave a note in the comments section and I'll randomly select one person to send the book to! Please include your email address so I can privately contact you about your postal address. Again, Heidi, thank you so much for having me.

Heidi: You are welcome, Amanda. Stitches Thru Time readers, make comments below to enter the giveaway😍 Amanda, we'll see you when your next book publishes!

Connect with Amanda:

Social Media Links

www.amandacabot.com

https://www.facebook.com/amanda.j.cabot

https://twitter.com/AmandaJoyCabot/

http://amandajoycabot.blogspot.com/

  

Buying Links

Amazon

Barnes & Noble

Christian Book Distributors