Karen Barnett stops by on the Mystery Blog tour. Enter to win a free book!

Hey everyone, welcome to the next step along the blog tour. 

My guest today is Karen Barnett and she's giving away a copy of her newest release, Mistaken. We'll get to more about that in a moment, but for now, Karen, why don't you tell everyone about yourself? 

I live in Oregon with my husband and kids. Other than reading and writing, I love movies and television—watching everything from period dramas to science fiction. Creative activities energize me, so I dabble in photography, cake decorating, music, and crafts. I play guitar and Irish tin whistle and occasionally lead worship for my church’s women’s ministry and children’s programs.

Your tagline is Cannot Be Shaken. Tell us why you chose this?

[Actually, it’s my blog title, not my tagline.] I was drawn to that phrase when I was reading through Philippians 12. Paul writes of how God’s voice can shake the earth, knocking loose all things that are of no consequence, so only what cannot be shaken remains (paraphrase of Phil 12;26-27). The verses resonated in my heart, reminding me that all the trials we go through in this life point us back to the only thing that really matters—Christ. I deeply desire my writing to reflect that concept.

Tell us a little about Mistaken, your new novel set to release in July? 

In the prohibition era rumrunning business, first impressions aren't always to be trusted...

Since booze and prohibition have made criminals out of every man in her world, Laurie Burke resolves to find at least one honorable man to fill her life. Convinced that handsome newcomer Daniel Shepherd is connected with her brother’s rumrunning gang, Laurie quickly scratches his name off her list. 

Daniel has mixed feelings about returning to the dirty mill town of his youth, but grudgingly agrees to manage his grandfather’s drug store until a replacement can be found. The moment he meets Laurie on the windswept bluff overlooking the beach, he knows that if he can earn her love, he might have a reason to stay. But when Laurie pushes him away--for none other than Federal Agent Samuel Brown--Daniel wonders if Laurie really is the upstanding woman he thought her to be. 

The Strait of Juan de Fuca, just off the beaches of Port Angeles, Washington, was treacherous water for reckless rum-runners—and the agents who tried to catch them. So when she realizes her brother is in danger, romance is the last thing on Laurie's mind. Yet the people she believes she can trust, may not be so honorable after all.

Can you share with us your favorite line from this novel and tell us why?

There are some lines at the climax of the novel that are the closest to my heart, but I don’t want to give away too much of the ending. One of my all-time favorite sections is the first paragraph. I wanted to give readers the sensation of “a dark and stormy night” without using those words. Plus, the scene features a vintage Model T—a car that stole my heart during the writing of this book.

“Laurie Burke clutched the steering wheel of her father’s Model T as the car lurched down the deserted road toward the beach, the headlights barely denting the dark night. Rain spilled over the edges of the canvas top and soaked her coat, wetting her to the skin. The automobile plowed through a low bog, tires casting up a spray of muddy water.”

Which celebrity would you choose to play the heroine in your novel and why?

It’s funny, but I’ve never been able to identify a celebrity I felt perfectly matched Laurie in Mistaken. I used photographs of Keira Knightly, Cameron Diaz, Angelina Jolie, and Evan Rachel Wood to help me describe aspects of her look, but I can’t picture any of these actresses actually playing the part of Laurie. I know whom I would want to play the hero. Patrick Dempsey. No question about it—his wavy hair and smirk? He’s definitely Daniel.

Okay, now a couple of fun questions before you have to go! If you could be a character in any book you’ve written, who would you choose and why?

I’ve written several novels, though Mistaken will be the first to be published. I would probably choose to be Laurie. Even though she’s had a difficult life, it’s shaped her into someone who is fiercely loyal and self-sacrificing. I respect her dedication to her family and those she loves, even though in this story it’s almost her undoing.

Do you have a favorite writing spot?

I have a desk, but I rarely write there. I sometimes work from coffee shops or the public library because, oddly enough—I concentrate better in public. I’m less apt to be distracted by chores, television, and Facebook. Two years ago, we adopted a sweet dachshund that gives me sad-puppy eyes when I’m away for long hours, so since then I’ve been writing from home more often.  I usually curl up on the sofa or sprawl across my bed with the dog glued to my side.

Fill in the blank: A perfect day for me would be __________________

“…spent hiking along a mountain ridge.” I absolutely love travelling and getting out into nature. I even worked as a park ranger for a few years, at Mount Rainier National Park and Oregon’s Silver Falls State Park. My perfect day would be spent somewhere breathtaking, either in the mountains or out on the water, soaking in the majesty of God’s creation. I’d probably have a book tucked in my backpack, so when I found the perfect spot, I could spend the afternoon reading.

Do you have a question you would like to ask readers?

I’m fascinated by different time periods and had a blast writing about 1920s rumrunners for Mistaken. I’d love to know, if your readers could spend a day in another era, which one would they choose?

How can readers get in touch with you?

Blog: http://www.karenbarnettbooks.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KarenBarnettAuthor

Twitter: https://twitter.com/KarenMBarnett

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/karenbarnett/

Thank you so much for stopping by, Karen! It was so cool getting to know you.

Thank you, Lynette! It was fun! I hope we get to meet in person someday. 

Same here, Karen! Thanks bunches!

****************************FREE BOOK GIVEAWAY*****************************

If you would like to be entered to win a copy of Karen's new book, Mistaken, just answer the question she asked, "If you could spend a day in another era, which one would they choose?"

I'm curious about this, too! Can't wait to hear your answers. Winner will be drawn May 16th at noon and announced shortly thereafter here on the blog and on my facebook page. www.facebook.com/lynette.eason

http://www.karenbarnettbooks.com/2013/05/an-interview-with-ace-collins-suspense.html

Thanks for stopping by!

January/February 2013 Newsletter from Lynette Eason

Best Selling Inspirational Romantic Suspense Author Lynette Eason Infinite Suspense Newsletter January/February 2013 In This Issue Lynette's News Where you can find me Inspirational Romantic Suspense Author Lynette Eason Inspirational Suspense Author Lynette Eason Welcome to my newsletter. I hope all is well with you. I have lots to share so jump in to the information on the right! Quick Links... Lynette's Website Infinite Suspense Blog   Purchase books from Steeple Hill Email Lynette Dear Readers, Hello all! For some of you, this is the first time for you to receive this newsletter. If your name has been added and you don't wish to receive it, just unsubscribe and you'll never hear from me again! :) Dear Wonderful Readers: Hi everyone, Lynette Eason here. Yesterday I was working on my newsletter. Yes, this one. And lost the first draft after it was almost completely done. What??? Needless to say I was a little frustrated. However, once I calmed down, I decided to try to find the spiritual application there. I'll let you know if I find it. LOL.  But seriously, sometimes things just go wrong. Sometimes life just throws us frustrations. I think God allows these things to happen to teach us how to respond to certain things. Now I realize losing a newsletter that I'd put several hours of work into doesn't compare to some things, but what if I respond with, "Okay, I'm not happy about this, but maybe there's some way to make this better?" I mean, it sure beats moaning and groaning about  the loss and pouting that I have to do the work over again, right? Maybe. My fourteen year old daughter also recently learned a little about this when she fell off her horse a week and a half ago. She jumps horses on a regular basis and after nine years of riding has only fallen once before. This time her fall was a doozy. She sprained her back and couldn't hardly move for days. Pain medication gave her only partial relief. In the midst of her pain, she asked me, "Why did God let this happen?" Of course I have no idea why He let it happen, but I asked her if she could learn something from it. With no little sarcasm, she responded, "You mean other than the fact that I should have held on tighter?" "Um...yes. Other than that." She said something to the effect of, "Maybe it's so I'll slow down and make sure I'm keeping my focus on God." Maybe. In all of this, though, James 1:2 comes to mind: "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds..."  This is a hard one for me. I don't like trials. I don't like struggles. I especially don't like to see my child suffer. But when I--or my daughter-- come out stronger on the other side with the evidence that God is working in my life--and hers--, well, I have to admit, I like that part. I pray that if you are facing trials or frustration, struggles and hard times, that God will touch your heart, that he will wrap his arms around you to give you comfort and bless the socks off of you right there in the midst of your trouble. On the publishing front: WHEN A SECRET KILLS releases May 1, 2013!  May I just say I'm super excited about this book?? I hope you are too!                          Investigative reporter Jillian Carter knows it's time to put the past to rest. She's tired of looking over her shoulder, letting a killer go free. She's no longer the scared kid who changed her name and disappeared. Now, no matter what the cost, Jillian must do what she is trained to do--ferret out the truth and expose it. Senator Frank Hoffman committed murder ten years ago--and Jillian watched it happen. Didn't she? Not even the enigmatic and attractive Colton Brady, her ex-boyfriend and nephew of the killer, will be able to make her leave this alone. Get ready for the spine-tingling, nail-biting conclusion to an explosive series. NEW FROM LOVE INSPIRED SUSPENSE  I don't have a cover yet, but HIDE AND SEEK, the first book in the Family Reunions series will release  in August 2013 and the second one will release in December 2013.      *******************************************************  Just a brief reminder that if you haven't read the SHORT E-BOOK sequel to the Women of Justice Series, you can still download it. Order Gone in A Flash from Amazon or  Order Gone in A Flash from Barnes and Noble or Order Gone In A Flash from Christian Book Distributors I do want to say that if your local Christian bookstore has a way for you to download e-books from them, PLEASE support them and get the book from them.   Gone In A Flash Released June 2012                           Connor and Samantha Wolfe are finally taking their family on a much-deserved vacation aboard a luxurious cruise ship. Unfortunately, crime doesn't take a vacation. WOMEN'S MINISTRY: I would consider it an honor to come speak to your women's ministry, conference, workshop or writers group. If you are interested, you may contact me directly at lynetteeason@lynetteeason.com. Don't forget to come see me on Facebook. I'd love to chat with you!  Happy SPRING! Until next time... Because of Christ, Lynette Where you can find me Upcoming Events for 2013.  Hope I get to see some of you! - April 19-20 - Carolina Christian Writers Conference - First Baptist Church, Spartanburg, SC - Carolina Christian Writers Conference - Spartanburg, SC - May 4, 2013 - Women of Honor - CalvaryBaptist Church, Greenville, SC Register here for the Women of Honor Event - May 18, 2013 - Women of Honor - Buffat Heights Baptist Church, Knoxville, TN Register here for the Women of Honor Event  - May 19-23, 2013 - The Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference - Ridgecrest, NC For more information, visit http://www.brmcwc.com/ -July 15th - Inman Library - Inman, SC - July 22-27, 2013 - I'm going to the Dominican Republic for a mission trip. We are going to build schools, work with the orphans and share Christ. I would love for you to be a part of that. If you would like to give a gift of $25 or more, I will send you the book of your choice. Yes, even the new book, When A Secret Kills. :) Just click the link and make sure you note that it's for the DR for Lynette Eason and I will send you your book!  Donation for the Mission Trip to the Dominican Republic -September 5-8 - Writers Police Academy - Jamestown, NC For more information, visitwww.writerspoliceacademy.com -September 19-23 - ACFW Conference - Indianapolis, IN For more information, visit www.acfw.com -October (dates TBD) - The Novelist Retreat - Ridgecrest, NC I hope I'll be seeing some of you at some of these places! ********************************************** Promoting some friends' books! I love to tell you about great books so here are SIX that are fabulous! Georgia Sweethearts by Missy Tippens Missy shares a little about how her heroine came to be such a "not so great knitter" "When our church started a knitting group, I thought I'd join since I'd come up with a story idea involving a woman who inherited a yarn shop. When I got to the class and realized, with frustration, that re-learning to knit was difficult for me, I decided to stick my character with the same struggles. It made it fun to write as I was living the experience along with my heroine!" Back Cover Copy: A Pattern For Love After inheriting her great-aunt's failing yarn shop, Lilly Barnes is determined to make it a success. All she wants is stability, something she doesn't think possible in the small town of Corinthia, Georgia. Then Pastor Daniel Foreman rents space in her store to hold meetings for his growing congregation, and this proves to be her lifeline. At first Lilly wants nothing to do with Daniel's big dreams, but she soon finds herself starting to share his goals. Yet trouble between her customers and his congregation make them both doubt the path they're on. That is, until practical Lilly shows him that love is a risk worth taking. *************************************************************************  The Survivor  by DiAnn Mills Back Cover Copy: Kariss meets Dr. Amy Garrett, who survived a brutal childhood attack in which the assailant was never found. Now Dr. Garrett wants her story written in a novel. Kariss wishes she could seek the advice of Special Agent Tigo Harris, but she broke off the relationship a few months prior and seeing him again would be too painful. She interviews Amy and conducts her own research, stepping unaware into a viper's pit of danger. Tigo misses Kariss and wants her back, but he understands why she broke off their relationship. Instead, he concentrates on solving a car bombing and bringing the killer to justice. As Kariss's new story attracts an onslaught of danger that she never expected, can Tigo save the woman he loves and find who wants her dead for writing about an unsolved cold-case? ************************************************************** Stress Test by Richard Mabry   Back Cover Copy: THEY MAY NOT HAVE ENOUGH EVIDENCE TO CONVICT HIM, BUT THEY HAVE ENOUGH TO RUIN HIS LIFE. Dr. Matt Newman thought he was leaving his life as a surgeon in private practice for a better one in academic medicine. But the kidnappers who attacked him as he left the hospital at 2 a.m. have no such plans-they just want him dead. Bound and in the trunk of his car, Matt's only thought is fleeing with his life. He does escape, but at a price: a head injury that lands him in the ICU . . . where he awakens to discover he's being charged with murder. Sandra Murray is a fiery, redheaded lawyer who swore she was done with doctors after her last relationship. But when Matt calls, she knows she can't walk away from defending someone who is truly innocent. Matt's career is going down the drain. His freedom and perhaps his life may be next. But with the police convinced he's a killer and the kidnappers still trying to finish what they started, finding the truth-and the faith to keep going-will be the toughest stress test Matt has ever endured "This is a terrific read, by a surgeon who clearly knows his stuff as a doctor and his craft as a writer." -MICHAEL PALMER, New York Times best-selling author of Oath of Office *********************************************************** Scorned Justice by Margaret Daley   Back Cover Copy: Texas Ranger Brody Calhoun is with his parents in west Texas when an unexpected attack injures the brother of Rebecca Morgan, Brody's high school sweetheart. The local sheriff, a good friend, asks for Brody's help. At first, it seems like an open-and-shut case. As Brody digs deeper, he realizes the attack may be related to an organized crime trial Rebecca will be overseeing. With Rebecca's help, he compiles evidence involving cattle rustling, bribery, and dirty payoffs that shatter the entire community and put Rebecca directly in the line of fire. Brody expects to protect her. What he never expects is to fall for Rebecca all over again, or for a murder to throw the case wide open. Is Brody's faith strong enough to withstand not only deep-rooted corruption and cattle rustling, but also love? ************************************************************ HISTORICALS! All in Good Time by Maureen Lang    Back Cover Copy: Dessa Caldwell has a dream: to open Pierson House, a refuge for former prostitutes in Denver's roughest neighborhood. But after exhausting all charitable donations, Dessa still needs a loan, and nearly every bank in town has turned her down. Her last hope hinges on the owner of Hawkins National Bank. Henry Hawkins has a secret: though he owns the most successful bank in town, his initial capital came from three successful raids on Wells Fargo coaches. Now he's the most eligible bachelor in Denver, but to protect his criminal past, he's built a fortress around his heart. Not even the boldest matchmaking mother can tempt him . . . until the day Dessa Caldwell ventures into his bank requesting a loan. Though he's certain her proposal is a bad investment, Henry is drawn to Dessa's passion. But that same passion drives her to make rash decisions about Pierson House . . . and about whom she can trust. One man might hold the key to the future of her mission-but he also threatens to bring Henry's darkest secrets to light. As the walls around their hearts begin to crumble, Henry and Dessa must choose between their plans and God's, between safety and love. ************************************************************** City of Angels by James Scott Bell and Tracie Peterson    Back Cover Copy: The courtrooms of 1903 Los Angeles are a man's world--until Kit Shannon arrives With shoulders squared and dreams set high, Kit Shannon arrives in Los Angeles feeling a special calling to the law. Yet under the care of her socialite aunt, Kit quickly comes to realize that few understand her burning desire to seek justice and practice a profession known only to men. When her aunt adamantly refuses to support her unconventional career aspirations, Kit questions whether she is truly following God's will. And when her growing love for a man pledged to another threatens scandal, Kit knows her days might be numbered in Los Angeles. A chance meeting with Earl Rogers, the city's most prominent criminal lawyer, garners Kit an apprentice position. And work on a notorious murder case. Someone has been killing prostitutes in Los Angeles, but Kit is certain it is not Rogers' client. Determined to find the truth, Kit runs full on into forces that want to stop her, forces that stretch all the way to the citadels of power in the City of Angels. Thank you so much for your interest in what's going on with me and my writing! I hope you have a wonderful Spring! Don't forget to turn you clocks ahead one hour next week! God is good all the time!  Sincerely, Lynette Eason Author Newsletter

BLOG HOP - Interview about Lynette Eason and meet some new authors

Are you ready to be introduced to some new authors through a Blog Hop? Never heard of a Blog Hop? It was new to me, too. Here’s how it works: I’m going to answer ten questions, then at the bottom, I’ll be adding links to several authors I’d like you to meet. 

Now, here are my Q&A:

What is the working title of your book?

Right now, I’m working on a couple of books. The first one is the second in the FAMILY REUNIONS series. The title hasn’t been settled on yet. This book is for the Love Inspired Suspense line. The other book I’m working on also doesn’t have a title yet. The working title is No One You Know. This book is for Revell and is due on Jan 2! Not sure when it will release, but am hoping for fall of 2013. This book kicks off a new series that I’m really excited about. I’ve had a great time researching the WITSEC program.

Where did the idea come from for the book?

My editor. She emailed me one day and said, “I have an idea for a book. You want it?” I said, “Sure.” So she emailed me the blurb and I took it from there.

What genre does your book fall under?

My books are Inspirational Romantic Suspense.

Which actors would you choose to play your characters in a movie rendition?

Maybe Eric Culver who plays Deeks on NCIS los Angeles. The female might be someone like Grace Park who plays Kona on Hawaii 5-0.

What is the one-sentence synopsis of your book?

Summer Abernathy wakes one morning to find a gun pointed in her face, her husband missing and a short timeline to make things right before she’s killed.

Will your book be self-published or represented by an agency?

My books are published through traditional publishing houses, Harlequin and Revell. I think I might like to self-publish something one day, just to see if the money is any better, but it’s a lot of work to do it right. Not ready to go that route just yet.

How long did it take you to write the first draft of your manuscript?

I’m usually writing two books at the same time. Writing the Harlequin books don’t take as long – generally two to three months. I give myself 4 months to write them, though. The Revell books usually take the entire 7-9 months to write because of all the research that I have to do.

What other books would you compare this story to within your genre?

Library Journal compared one of my books to Suzanne Brockman and Sandra Brown. I laughed, but was flattered. Just to make it clear, my books are very chaste as far as sexual content as I write for the Christian market, however, there is quite a bit of violence that would probably make the books more along the lines of a PG-13 rating.

Who or What inspired you to write this book?

Money. LOL. No, seriously, while the advance is motivating, I love what I do. Writing suspense/mystery is like figuring out a puzzle. I love it when all the pieces come together to form the big picture.

What else about your book might pique the reader's interest?

If you love mystery, forensics, a bit of law and order, suspense and a touch of romance, then you’ll enjoy my books.

Next up on December 12th: 

Jessica Keller: www.jesskeller.wordpress.com

Linda Ford: http://lindaford.org/blog/