New Historical Fiction from Carole Brown

Caleb’s Destiny: Troubles in the West, book 1

Carole Brown

Inspirational historical fiction

May 22, 2020

Story & Logic Media Group

ISBN-13: 9781941622636

282 pp

$2.99 ebook

$12.99 Print

Buy on Amazon US

Amazon AU

Amazon CA

Buy on Barnes and Noble 

About the Book:

Mr. Michael, Destiny Rose McCulloch, and Hunter have a mysterious history. Why were three fathers, all business partners, murdered under suspicious circumstances while on their quest to find gold?

Hunter is determined to protect his boss and the precocious young lady who he suspects holds a key answer to his questions.

Mr. Michael wants only to be left alone to attend to his property, but what can he do when Destiny refuses to leave and captures the heart of every one of his employees?

Destiny almost forgets her quest when she falls in love with Mr. Michael's ranch and all the people there. And then Mr. Michael is much too alluring to ignore. The preacher man back east where she took her schooling tried to claim her heart, but the longer she stays the less she can remember him. She only came west to find a little boy she knew years ago. A little boy all grown up by now...unless, of course, he's dead.

Three children, connected through tragedy and separated by time, are fated to reunite and re-right some powerful wrongs.

Lisa's Review

Brown’s latest story-telling chops take her fans back to gold rush days, with all the deviousness mankind can wrought. Three youngsters, gathered by tragedy and separated by time are fated to reunite and re-right some powerful wrongs. Rich setting and always excellent scenes will enchant the lover the romantic historical suspense.

Brown’s stories tend to be rich on nuance and detail, spiritual and wholesome tales. In this  story, we hearken back to gold rush days in Colorado, where men become impatient and fools rush in. Three children, orphaned at the outset of the 1870s, are brought together for a very brief time after suffering tragedy.

Young Caleb is a determined protector; Destiny is a spitfire young girl, and Hunter, a young man with a loyal heart. They all witness horrifying crimes. The story picks up fifteen years later when Destiny travels back to the west in an effort to learn more of her history, Only a child when sent to Boston, she longs for a sense of family and friendship she once knew after losing her mother. Her reintroduction to Colorado is a rather violent one, and she’s rescued by the local landowner—a man burdened by secrets.

Caleb’s Destiny continues to unfold as the past slowly opens to reveal the intrigue and reasons behind the sorrowful events of the past. Lovingly researched with well-fleshed characters, Brown unwinds her story through multiple viewpoints, great dialog and realistic events. Fans of historical fiction with all the romance and suspense of classic westerns will find much to love.

A brief Interview with Carole:

Is there a story behind Caleb's Destiny?

Actually, a few years ago, I wanted to enter a book for a contest. When I brainstormed with my hubby, he came up with the plot for the book. I began writing but didn't complete it. This year I decided to finish that beginning. I'd just recently began a Chore & Writing Crawl, which I've been following meticulously (or almost). Doing this has helped me complete this approximately 90,000 word novel in around two and ½ months.

Where do you get the names for your characters?

In this book, it was easy. Our niece lost her baby girl whose name was Destiny. This niece is so special. Loves us and my books. It was decided almost from the first that the female protagonist would be called Destiny. :)  For me, it seems that the names just came to me. I use origins for some names to suit the personality of a character. I use a baby name book. It just depends on the book and character. But it's so much fun choosing!

As far as Mr. Michael's name, it came from a nephew who died unexpectedly and devastated the family. It was a good thing to use his name.

Do you have favorite research books?

I do, and they are such simple but important ones to me. A dictionary, a synonym, a baby's name book, some crime books, personality books. These are my go-to research books. For other research, I use the internet and try to find specialists in whatever I need to learn about some detail. Lots of fun!

About Carole:  

Besides being a member and active participant of many writing groups, Carole Brown enjoys mentoring beginning writers. An author of ten books, she loves to weave suspense and tough topics into her books, along with a touch of romance and whimsy, and is always on the lookout for outstanding titles and catchy ideas. She and her husband reside in SE Ohio but have ministered and counseled nationally and internationally. Together, they enjoy their grandsons, traveling, gardening, good food, the simple life, and did she mention their grandsons?

Personal blog: http://sunnebnkwrtr.blogspot.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CaroleBrown.author

Amazon Author Page:  http://www.amazon.com/Carole-Brown/e/B00EZV4RFY/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1427898838&sr=8-1

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/browncarole212

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/carole-brown

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/browncarole212/?hl=en

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/sunnywrtr/boards/

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/5237997-carole-brown

Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/carole-brown-79b6951a/

A New Mystery from Carole Brown

released July 10, 2018
$2.99 ebook
$11.99 Print
Buy on US Amazon
Book 4 in the series

About the book

Everyone loves Toby Gibson. A co-owner of Undiscovered Treasures, a unique shop of antiques, collectables and junk, Toby is friendly, generous to a fault, the director of the local plays in Appleton and supports his church's youth functions. But the minute his sister, Caroline and her new husband, take off for their honeymoon, a “ghost” begins to haunt the shop—or maybe it's just an intruder. If so, Toby has no idea for what the thing is looking. To add to his troubles, he suspects Amy, not only is bidding for the property he's wanted forever, but is in love with him. And he's not interested.

Amy Sanderson who owns the only flower shop in Appleton—Bloomin' Life—is drawn into capturing Toby's “ghost” when her own business is damaged by a destructive intruder. Having loved Toby since a teenager, she's more than willing to join forces with him. But she has no interest in being his best friend or a sister to him. And if she has to resort to schemes of outbidding him at his frequent auction attendences to get his attention, then so be it. She can be just as stubborn as the man who's determined to ignore her love.

In between the break-ins, destruction of property, thefts and personal competitions against each other, Amy and Toby work together to find the thief who seems so determined to find a valuable item, he'll stop at nothing.

Lisa Lickel's Review

Toby Gibson is sure he’s got a ghost in Undiscovered Treasures, the store he owns with his sister, who’s out of town on her honeymoon. He’s alone in the above store apartment, but as sure as he is that he’s got an unwanted visitor, he’s equally sure Detective Eddie of the Appleton Police won’t be able to help. Not until his friend Amy from the flower shop on the other side of the abandoned building between them and he start experiencing real break-ins, that is.

From the moment Toby meets a grumpy old man badgering Amy who outbid him on a piece of furniture we wanted at an auction and stole his dream of expanding into next building this fourth book in Brown’s series is like coming home to old friends.

Poor, clueless Toby, is about to get a lesson in the real meaning behind best friends. It’s a riot to watch Toby get what’s coming to him while working with his friends to unravel the mystery of dark family secrets in sunny Appleton, West Virginia.

Cleverly weaving businesses and friends from the previous stories and melding them into a new mystery, Brown makes Appleton a fun place to visit. Told from multiple perspectives with good pacing. Brown’s stories are clean and inspirational, and recommended for junior high readers and up.

About the Author

Besides being a member and active participant of many writing groups, Carole  Brown enjoys mentoring beginning writers. She loves to weave suspense and tough topics into her books, along with a touch of romance and whimsy, and is always on the lookout for outstanding titles and catchy ideas. She and her husband have ministered and counseled across the country. Together, they enjoy their grandsons, traveling, gardening, good food, the simple life, and did she mention their grandsons? 

Connect:

Personal blog: http://sunnebnkwrtr.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CaroleBrown.author
Twitter: https://twitter.com/browncarole212
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/5237997-carole-brown

New historical fiction from Carole Brown

A Flute in the Willows
Story and Logic Media Group
December 2017
Historical Christian Romance
eBook $2.99
Print $12.99

Buy the book on Amazon US
Amazon UK
Amazon Australia
Amazon CA

About the Book:

Both rebels in their own way, Josie and Jerry Patterson must figure out how to keep the other's love...and keep the German enemy at bay.

She has two loves—her skating and Jerry, her husband. But when he returns home looking like a skeleton trying to return to life, she's scared. What happened in Germany to change a man so much? Has another woman captured his heart?

Jerry has vowed to let Josie live her own glamourous life...especially after what happened in Germany. But when his wife's life is threatened, Jerry realizes he can't stand by and do nothing. Jerry has to risk all for the very soul and life of himself—Josie.

These two damaged, rebellious people learn the hard way that leaning on God instead of their own selves and abilities is the only true way to love and happiness.

Lisa Lickel's brief interview with Carole:

Carole, what’s your biggest reward in writing?

I'd say it's two-fold:

·         Knowing I'm using the talent God gave me, and

·         Readers approval and enthusiasm over my books

What would you like readers to tell others when they’ve finished reading?

If a reader has read one of my books and enjoyed it, I'd love to have them sharing what they loved about the book. Perhaps how it affected them in whatever way. For example:

·       With my latest, released novel: A Flute in the Willows (Book 2 of the Spies of WWII series), some readers said they liked how I brought in PTSD in the book to bring awareness of the condition many soldiers and families deal with after the soldiers return from war.

·       They also enjoyed the relationship between the newly, but separated by war, married couple, how they grew into a deeper love relationship and their battle to overcome their troubles.

These are just two of the effects from this book.

Who’s been your biggest influence on your writing?

Perhaps my mother who read to my brothers and me as young children. Positive encouragements to me have been associations with other writer friends, words of advice (when I first began to seriously write novels) from those (like Lena Nelson Dooley and Gayle Roper) who had more authorly experience, and constant contact with fellow-critiquers who have helped me to grow.

What are you reading now?

I'm hoping to begin a book from a secular author and another from Author Jill Kremerer who spoke at a recent writer's meeting I attended.

What’s coming up for you?

·        I'm trying to finish up the 4^th book in my Appleton, WV Romantic series, called Toby's Troubles. It focuses on the brother of Caroline Gibson from book three: his mystery and romance. He has his own shop-ghost, directs the town of Appleton's theater, is a tiny bit OCD when it comes to Undiscovered Treasures (antique, collectible, junk shop), a huge tease and doesn't know love when it stares him in the face.

·        I also hope to finish the 3^rd book in the Denton and Alex Davies Mystery series, Daffy's Duck which features a special duck, a talented artist who has Down's Syndrome: Daffodil Meadows. She and her older brother co-own a ski resort in Colorado. Denton and Alex Davies, amateur traveling detectives, along with Taffy, their Jack Russell Terrier, are determined to find the person who is out to destroy the Meadows big time.

·         If time allows (a big “if”), I want to get a little more writing done on a historical stand alone book, Caleb's Destiny (a mystery from the past and romance), and then

·        work on the 3^rd book in my Spies of WWII series, Sing Until You Die. The third Rayner sister, Claire Rosella Rayner, is an up-and-coming professional singer, who puts her musical studies on hold to sing to the war troops. An overheard conversation sends her straight to the boy-grown-man she's always detested, an undercover spy. Is there any possible way her life can be spared, let alone a possibility for love to grow between the two of them?

Can you share your favorite marketing tool?

Right now I'm using Celebrate Lit with a book tour for my A Flute in the Willows.

About the Author:

Besides being a member and active participant of many writing groups, Carole Brown enjoys mentoring beginning writers. An author of ten books, she loves to weave suspense and tough topics into her books, along with a touch of romance and whimsy, and is always on the lookout for outstanding titles and catchy ideas. She and her husband reside in SE Ohio but have ministered and counseled nationally and internationally. Together, they enjoy their grandsons, traveling, gardening, good food, the simple life, and did she mention their grandsons?

Connect with Carole: 

Personal blog: http://sunnebnkwrtr.blogspot.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CaroleBrown.author

Amazon Author Page:  http://www.amazon.com/Carole-Brown/e/B00EZV4RFY/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1427898838&sr=8-1

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/browncarole212

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/carole-brown

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/sunnywrtr/boards/

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/5237997-carole-brown

Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=67381031

Google+:    https://plus.google.com/u/0/113068871986311965415/posts

Stitches in Time:  http://stitchesthrutime.blogspot.com/

With Music in Their Hearts Spies of WWII by Carole Brown

With Music in Their Hearts The Spies of WWII Book 1

Carole Brown

ISBN  978-1941622032

$2.99 Ebook

$12.99 Print

Story and Logic Media Group (November 1, 2014)

Buy on Amazon 

About the Book

Angry at being rejected for military service, Minister Tyrell Walker accepts the call to serve as a civilian spy within his own country. 

Across the river from Cincinnati, Ohio, a spy working for a foreign country is stealing secret plans for newly developed ammunition to be used in the war. According to Tyrell’s FBI cousin, this spy favors pink stationery giving strong indications a woman is involved. 

Tyrell is instructed to obtain a room in the Rayner Boarding House run by the lovely, spunky red-haired Emma Jaine Rayner. Sparks of jealousy and love fly between them immediately even as they battle suspicions that one or the other is not on the up and up.

While Tyrell searches for the murdering spy who reaches even into the boarding home, Emma Jaine struggles with an annoying renter, a worried father (who could be involved in this spy thing), and two younger sisters who are very different but just as strong willed as she is.

Tyrell works to keep his double life a secret and locate the traitor. He refuses to believe that Emma Jaine could be involved even when he sees a red-haired woman in the arms of another man. Could the handsome and svelte banker who’s also determined to win Emma Jaine’s hand for marriage, be the dangerous man he’s looking for? Is the trouble-making renter who hassles Emma Jaine serving as a flunky? Worse, is Papa Rayner so worried about his finances and keeping his girls in the style they’re used to, that he'll stoop to espionage? 

Will their love survive the danger and personal issues that arise to hinder the path of true love?

Lisa Lickel's Review

Ms. Brown’s historical novel is a delight. The book adds a twisty dimension to the WWII spy game that isn’t often considered from the US war-time arena. Yes, there were spies in the US, stooping to betray their country and sell information to our enemies, creating a new level of mistrust when these traitors could be our next-door neighbors, or even family members.

When a young pastor tries to enlist but is turned down for head-scratching reasons, his debonair, fun-loving cousin comes to the rescue. Or was this all part of some elaborate plan? Tyrell Walker gets to serve his country after all, just not on the European or Asian fronts. With his cousin Ben’s contacts, Tyrell is pulled into the underworld of espionage and given orders to find out who is selling secrets. He is given a position as a church pastor and a room in a boarding house which the government believes hides their target. Nearly every boarder, from the spunky elderly Miss Gertie, to the aspiring catty actress, the couple who always argues to the banker who seems to have a lot of late nigh crises at the bank, not to mention the owner of the boarding house who’s falling on hard times, is a potential spy. Tyrell has his work cut out for him, but his heart is truly in God’s corner and the pastorate is not just a cover. He is God’s servant first, an undercover agent second, and falling in love with his landlady, Emma Jaine. Can he keep all of these pieces of his life in control, or will he let his heart overrule his good judgement?

Brown uses period clothing, lifestyle and a lot of slang in her tale of life Stateside during the perilous era of World War II. Told in multiple viewpoints, the story opens with action, clues, and faith that God is in control during an era gone amok. For those who like inspirational period historical novels with lots of romance, relationship issues, and 1940s culture. Discussion guide included.

Knight in Shining Apron by Carole Brown

About the Book

Starli Cameron gave up her career plans to be a concert pianist to marry the man of her dreams. He turned out to be a nightmare. When he dies in a car accident, Starli takes the insurance money and builds a successful and upscale restaurant: Apple Blossoms in rural West Virginia.  Threats from someone determined to ruin her life and the suspicious romantic advances from her new chef force Starli to search her heart and finally turn to God for real healing.

Sir Joel Peterman-Blair, top notch chef from England, is roped by his uncle, into filling in as head Chef at Apple Blossoms. Joel, with his sanguine-personality, has always laughed and flirted his way through life. But now, confronted with and attracted to the most beautiful woman he’s ever met, Joel has to prove his sincerity and depth of character to his icy-cold employer. Can his love for God and for this woman reach out far enough to rescue her from her own mistrust and bitterness? Will he learn that life is not all play?

And can they both work together to find the source of threats that seem to be coming from Starli’s past?

Print:11.99
Ebook: 2.99
Buy on Amazon

Lisa's review

Hints of an abusive relationship between restauranteur Starli and her late husband are the focus of this romantic intrigue. When first introduced, it seemed Starli had a huge chip on her shoulder and was at odds with many in the town, including her former brother-in-law, a policeman, who constantly threatens to avenge his sibling’s death. Starli has more on her plate to deal with as her former head chef abruptly leaves, with an ominous note “accidentally” left for Starli to find, vandalism and sabotage taking place in her business, a youngster in the kitchen who thinks she’s management material, an over-confident, over-the-top knighted British chef stepping in at the request of her maître d, and a boring confidant banker who wants to be more. What’s a widow to do?

Book Two of the Appleton, West Virginia Romantic Mysteries (after Sabotaged Christmas) is a charming follow up. Told in alternating points of view, Sir Joel tasks himself with uncovering his new boss’s skittish untrusting persona as he repays his uncle for past kindness in rescuing this damsel in distress. Starli deals with scary parts of threats and well-meaning friends and employees who think it’s time she get out and live again after the death of her terrifying husband. Clues, plenty of red herrings, several twists all make the reader keep turning pages…and that’s only in the first quarter of the book. A proposal gone awry, a dreadful accident, and a surprise confession all bring this sweet and savory story to a satisfactory conclusion.

A huge cast will keep you entertained as well as guessing and salivating during the courses of Knight in Shining Apron.

Carole shares about Trust Issues

Trust Issues by Carole Brown

We’ve done a lot of marriage and spiritual ministry through the years, and one of the biggest issues is trust. In this world of immoral lifestyles, it’s easy for one or the other marital companion to mistrust the other. It takes two people committed and determined to stay together.

In Knight in Shining Apron, Starli Cameron has serious issues with trust because of her past abusive and unfaithful husband. Although Joel keeps assuring her that she can trust him, she needs to see that faithfulness and sincerity from him in action. The least little thing from him shoots her doubts skyward again.

Though Joel is happy-go-lucky and has always been confident in himself, his God and others, he slowly learns that it takes more than enthusiastic assurances to convince her that he is for real.

Only with Joel’s persistence and striving to be what he says he is--and God’s help--does Starli finally learn to let go of her bitterness and fear, to live and love again.  

About Carole

Besides being an active participant of many writing groups, Carole enjoys mentoring beginning writers. She loves to weave suspense, tough topics, romance and whimsy into her books, and is always on the lookout for outstanding titles and catchy ideas. She and her husband reside in SE Ohio but have ministered and counseled nationally and internationally. Together, they enjoy their grandsons, traveling, gardening, good food, the simple life, and did she mention their grandsons?

Connect with Carole:

Personal blog

Facebook 

Amazon Author Page 

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/browncarole212

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/sunnywrtr/boards/

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/5237997-carole-brown

Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/carole-brown-79b6951a?trk=nav_responsive_tab_profile

Google+:    https://plus.google.com/u/0/113068871986311965415/posts

Word Sharpeners: https://wordsharpeners.wordpress.com/

Stitches in Time:  http://stitchesthrutime.blogspot.com/

Barn Door Book Loft: http://www.barndoorbookloft.net/

John 3:16 Book Review: Lisa Lickel reviews "Sassy Pants" by Carole Brown

Sassy Pants learns about Strange Creatures, third in the series

By Carol Brown

November 2015

Summer Island Press, Alaska

ISBN 978-0996495356

Children’s lit

Price paperback $11.99

Buy on Amazon US

Amazon Canada

From the Publisher:

Strange creatures are popping up all over the place on Farmer White's farm! What is a little pig supposed to do? Does she have to be polite? Should she just ignore them? And what if they're scary? How can you tell the difference between dangerous, or just different? That's what Sassy Pants has to learn when she wanders off by herself in places she isn't supposed to. But sometimes she learns the easy way, and sometimes the hard way. Which one will it be this time? And will she learn what's right in time to stay safe? Follow along with Sassy Pants and Friends, as they try to figure things out.

Lisa's review:

Delightful addition to the Sassy Pants middle grade readers. Sassy Pants is a little pig, a runt raised by the farm family and then returned to the pigpen where she has a lot to learn. In this tale, Sassy Pants learns from Old Clyde the horse that a strange new creature has come to Farmer White’s farm. He’s a llama with a big long name, but Sassy Pants calls him Mister One. None of the other animals want to disturb Mister One with his terrible nightmares and strange spitting ways, but Sassy Pants is determined to help the llama. She learns how when another strange creature shows up—an English bulldog and his captain, come for a visit. While none of the other animals want to even get close to the stinky bulldog, Sassy Pants persists and learns a valuable lesson about not just getting along, but helping each other even when we make mistakes.

Lovingly crafted illustrations and humor will add to the enjoyment of the these stories told by Sassy Pants herself.

Carole Brown and Bat Crazy Giveaway!

Carole is offering a copy of Bat Crazy to one randomly drawn commenter! Comment by Sunday night, December 13, midnight EST, for a chance to win. Winner announced Monday, December 14.

About the Book:

Red-eyed Monster Bats that attack humans?

Denton doesn’t think so and Alex hopes not, but who are they to quibble with the local gossip?

Transmission problems and a blown tire land Denton and Alex Davies right in the middle of a dilapidated, unfriendly town that’s welcoming no strangers, least of all nosy ones with a bent toward solving mysteries.

But with support from the town detective--an admirer of the Davies--and their own tenacious personalities, Denton and Alex aren’t easily scared off. Not when warnings in the form of painted bats show up on the porch of their rented cabin, not when the mayor threatens to run them out of town and not even when Denton finds the bones . . .

An ancient story, a bit of a map, a lost jewel and even a bat clan serve to provide the Davies and their sidekick, Taffy, the dog, their hardest case so far.

Kindle: $2.99

Print: $11.99 

Buy the book here

Review for BAT CRAZY:

A terrific cozy mystery. Carole does a great job of developing her characters. I just love the couple in this series and the way they always seem to land in the middle of trouble. I loved Hog Insane, book one and was not disappointed in this book. I look forward to more adventures with Denton and Alex.

What do you love about this book?

I love Denton and Alex Davies, their personalities and their small squabbles and real love for each other. Relationships have to be worked at to survive and Denton and Alex, although they strongly disagree on a variety of subjects, work at theirs.

There’s also the fact that the first five months of this year, saw us facing five deaths. It was a particularly hard time for me when I couldn’t focus on writing. BUT God and my hubby helped me through it and eventually I was inspired once again to write. It was with  a special satisfaction that I was able to write “The End.”

Introduce us to a sidekick character.

I suppose one that I was drawn to was my detective: Tomas Brody. It was his first real job, an easy one, he thought when he accepted it. He’s young, inexperienced but smart enough to accept help when needed. I loved being able to create him as a sympathetic law officer who admires the Davies and who is not afraid to seek the help he knows they can give.

What did you learn while writing this book?

I always enjoy research, so it wasn’t entirely a chore to learn more about bats. Yes, the truth is, I’ve never been a big fan of them. But after studying them, I’ve learned that they are fairly harmless and beneficial to the environment. That boosts their value in my eyes.

I also wavered for quite awhile on which bat specie to use. Eventually, I went for a large one from Australia (that is stolen from a local zoo in the book) as an interesting tidbit in the book. On the interviews I’ve done so far, I hoped I’ve convinced several that they have no need to fear from the bats in BAT CRAZY!

Are there spiritual aspects in this book? A theme? Can you share a review or feedback from readers?

My Denton and Alex Davies series is written with a very light spiritual touch. I like to show the results of a good life and doing the right thing. And, as always, in this series, one of the minor threads in relationships.

In BAT CRAZY, there are TWO relationships:

1.      One is the new, young love of a couple who are trying to hard to protect the other, but in their innocence and selfless love, it all works out.

2.      The other is more of a sad situation. Two people who have had it all in the past, are so focused on what they want, how they can better their own careers/lives that they do not appreciate all the privileges they have. Because of their selfish love of self, their marriage fails and both go on to seeming failures.

What’s next?

The third book in this series should release sometime in 2016. It’s called DAFFY’S DUCK and is set in Colorado in the ski country. I’m so excited about this book because a Down’s Syndrome woman plays a big part in the plot. Blackmail, ducks, art and skiing are all involved to make it another exciting mystery.

About the Author:

Brown not only has her award winning (Winner of the 2015 Christian Small Publisher Award in General Fiction, nominated for an Epic Award, RWA International Digital Awards finalist in Inspiration, Laurel Award finalist, Selah finalist; Genesis semi-finalist) debut novel, The Redemption of Caralynne Hayman, available for purchase now, but a companion book called West Virginia Scrapbook: From the Life of Caralynne Hayman, filled with tidbits of information about West Virginia.

A fun, lighthearted mystery series began with the first book: Hog Insane, introducing Denton and Alex Davies and now her second book in this series, Bat Crazy. Her WWII romantic suspense Spies series began with With Music In Their Hearts, featuring the first of three red-headed sisters, three spies, and three stories.

Now, releasing November, 2015, is the first book in a new series: The Appleton, WV Romantic Mysteries, called Sabotaged Christmas.

Besides being a member and active participant of many writing groups, Carole Brown enjoys mentoring beginning writers. She loves to weave suspense and tough topics into her books, along with a touch of romance and whimsy, and is always on the lookout for outstanding titles and catchy ideas. She and her husband reside in SE Ohio but have ministered and counseled nationally and internationally. Together, they enjoy their grandsons, traveling, gardening, good food, the simple life, and did she mention their grandsons?

Catch up with Carole:

Personal blog: http://sunnebnkwrtr.blogspot.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CaroleBrown.author

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/browncarole212

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/sunnywrtr/boards/

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/5237997-carole-brown

Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=67381031

Google+:    https://plus.google.com/u/0/113068871986311965415/posts

Stitches in Time:  http://stitchesthrutime.blogspot.com/

Barn Door Book Loft: http://www.barndoorbookloft.net/

A Taste of Friday with Carole Brown and The Redemption of Caralynne Hayman

Carole Brown loves to weave suspense, tough topics, a touch of romance and whimsy in her books. Together, she and her husband enjoy their grandsons, traveling, gardening, good food, the simple life, and did she mention their grandsons?

 

The Redemption of Caralynne Hayman
Carole Brown
The Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas  September 2013

 

The Redemption of Caralynne Hayman

Chapter One

Twenty years earlier

 

The shadow creatures on the wall shook their wings and legs. Heads with horns nodded.   Scary, dark faces watched.

The little girl clasped her floppy-eared rabbit against her chest and stared into the dark.

“Mmm …” Mommy’s murmur reached to her through the walls, and the giggles from her mother tiptoed in, shooing away the fear.

Whoosh. She blew out a breath and squeezed her rabbit tighter. “Mommy has a friend with her, Ramsey. She loves me just like I love you and will give me hugs in the morning after the man leaves.”

Ramsey said nothing. She ran her fingers over his face and could feel his black button eyes staring at her, trusting her to protect him.

“And she’ll read to us, and I’ll sit on her lap and we’ll snuggle—all of us together.” She nodded and tugged on Ramsey’s left ear.

She rolled over.

Real live whispers and laughter floated into the room.

Opening her mouth in a wide yawn, she patted Ramsey’s tummy and whispered again, “Don’t be afraid. I’m right here.”

“Please. That hurts.”

“Mommy?” The little girl frowned but her eyes wouldn’t open. Just like when she and Mommy put cucumbers slices on their eyes. 

“Stop it—”

Rubbing at her eyes, the little girl sat up. Mommy had never sounded like this before, and neither had any of the men—the men who brought flowers and candy and money. What were they doing? Maybe Mommy was angry at the man and had sent him away.

She slid her feet to the floor and hesitated. Mommy didn’t like her to leave her room whenever any man visited.

“Come on, Ramsey. We have to go check on Mommy.” She tucked her rabbit under her arm then padded barefoot to her door and edged it open. Mommy’s room was the next one, and a second later she’d tiptoed to it and pressed an ear to the crack. Someone grunted and whispered in an angry voice.

“Serves you right, whore.”

Horse? The little girl frowned. That wasn’t Mommy’s name. Was the man calling Mommy a bad name? She touched the door, and it swung open wider.

The man was on top of mommy, leaning over, his hands wrapped around—her neck.

The big eye on his arm glared at her, scaring her, making her want to run back to bed. But she had to help Mommy. Tiptoeing closer—behind the man—she peeked around him at her mother.

Mommy’s mouth was open as if she was screaming, but she wasn’t. Mommy stared at the man, her eyes wide and blank. Every once in a while he jerked her and said words Mommy always told her not to say.

She whimpered. “Mommy?”

The man’s head turned, his eyes scary and mean, and not at all like Mommy’s laughing ones. His lips twisted into a snarl. “Who are you? Are you this—is she your mother?”

His hands released their grip on Mommy’s neck. He crawled out of the bed, grabbed for a pair of pants, and slid into them, turning his back to her. Then he straightened.

She backed away and raised a fist to her mouth.

“Come here, girl.” His voice had softened, but not his eyes.

She backed another two steps and whispered. “Mommy?”

“Your mommy can’t talk right now.” The man flipped a glance at the still figure in the bed. “You have a pretty barrette in your hair. Come let me see.”

She lifted a hand to the barrette. Mommy always let her wear it when she was with a man ’cause it was a special treat for a special girl. “No.” She shook her head. “Go away. I don’t like you.”

The man growled and sprang at her. Ramsey dropped to the floor as she sobbed and dodged the groping hands. “I want my mommy.”

The man said a bad word and stopped chasing her. “Come here and let’s talk about your mother.” 

Her mother hadn’t moved, hadn’t spoken. “Did you hurt her?”

“Of course not.”

“What’s wrong with her?”

“Your mother’s sick.”

“You hurt Mommy.”

Bad words spilled from his mouth in a steady stream.

She wanted to clap both hands over her ears. Mommy told her over and over she shouldn’t say those kinds of words.

He folded his arms across his chest, the big eye rippling on his arm, never blinking, only staring. “You keep your mouth shut. Do you hear me?”

She closed her eyes and opened them—fast. The eye still stared.

“If you talk, your mommy will die. Do you want to kill her? Do you?” His lips spread into a clown’s grin.

Her stomach hurt. Her eyes burned.

Go away, you.

All she wanted was to climb on Mommy’s lap and have this bad man go away.

“Remember, it’ll be your fault if she dies, and everyone will know you killed your mother.”

No. She didn’t want to kill Mommy.

He eased forward, crept closer, capturing her, holding her tight with his eyes. Like the snake that’d almost bitten her last summer. 

Closer.

Closer.

His hand shot out and touched her shoulder.

She screamed.

Seven Books, Seventh Authors, and Countdown to Christmas

Martin Roth

Brother Half-Angel

99 cents

22 reviews, 4.2 stars

Christian Thriller/Suspense

http://bit.ly/Martin_Roth

Link to Book Trailer:   http://animoto.com/play/2EPcMv2XWhfgJsNWRPNmOg

Brother Half Angel is the leader of a secret new church military order, dedicated to helping Christians under attack around the world. Relentless suspense is the hallmark of this gripping thriller. But it is also a book that raises serious questions – how far can Christians go to defend themselves? When should they turn the other cheek? What happens when a Christian kills in self-defense? And should those who live by the sword really expect to die by the sword?

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Carole Brown

The Redemption of Caralynne Hayman

99 cents

24 reviews, 4.8 stars

Women’s Fiction

http://bit.ly/Carole_B

How far would YOU go to avenge a daughter’s cruel death?

Cara is considered rebellious and inappropriate to befriend. Dayne is the apple of Elder Simmons’ eye—until he takes a stand against their teachings. Can his prayers and love reach Cara and show her the way to redemption? Will Cara realize God’s love and forgiveness before she goes too far?

The Redemption of Caralynne Hayman is a novel of hope shining through the darkness with strong elements of suspense and romance. This novel was a semifinalist in the Genesis contest and is receiving raving reviews!

Link to Book Trailer: http://bit.ly/1c2RqEI

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Lisa Lickel

The Potawatomi Boy

99 cents

14 reviews, 5 stars

Ages 7-10

http://bit.ly/Lisa_L

Green Leaf’s cousins are all older than he and don’t like to play fair. He longs for a friend his own age he can play with, explore and fish with. When he meets a Luxembourger boy, Henri, Green Leaf is sure they could become friends, but Henri’s words are strange to Green Leaf. How can they play and explore together?

Green Leaf’s mother says, “Friends learn to speak one another’s words.” But will Green Leaf learn to say his friend’s words well enough to save Henri when he falls into danger?

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Michelle Dennis Evans

Spiralling Out of Control (The Spiralling Trilogy)

99 cents

12 reviews, 4.6 stars

YA Fiction, Ages 17 and up

http://bit.ly/Michelle_E

Temptation, depression, seduction, betrayal ... Not what Stephanie was expecting at fifteen years of age. Uprooted from her happy, all-girl high school life with a dream filled future and thrown into an unfriendly co-ed school, Stephanie spirals into depression.

When charismatic high school senior, Jason notices her, Stephanie jumps in feet first and willingly puts all her faith and trust in him, a boy she barely knows.
Every choice she makes and turn she takes leads her towards a dangerous path.
Her best friend is never far away and ready to catch her … but will she push Tabbie too far away when she needs her most?

Set in Australia, this novel contains adult themes.
Recommended reading audiences 17+ 

Link to book trailer: http://youtu.be/pqWESeu0ob4

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 Jill Richardson

Hobbits, You, and the Spiritual World of Middle-Earth

99 cents

Young and Young-at-Heart

No Reviews Yet

http://bit.ly/Jill_R

Are hobbits, elves, and dragons real?  These creatures are common in fantasy but have you ever met one? Maybe not literally, but J.R.R. Tolkien's famous characters bring to life real character qualities we all can learn from, whether good or bad. What can the bravery of a hobbit, the faith of an elf, or the greed of a dragon teach teens about themselves? How can their stories lead us to the real Kingdom where God is working out way more than a fantasy for his people? Dig into these familiar characters and relevant Bible passages to find out. Understand how to live your own epic story!

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Lorilyn Roberts

The Donkey and the King (A Story of Redemption)

99 cents

25 reviews, 4.8 stars

Ages 2-6

http://bit.ly/Donkey_Kindle

Book Trailer:  http://bit.ly/Donkey_Video

The Donkey and the King is a story of love with Christian symbolism and allegory. Travel to the Bible lands and meet Baruch, a stubborn donkey, and other lovable animals: Lowly, the pig; Much-Afraid, a small, lame dog; Worldly Crow, who isn't as bright as he think he is; and a sheep, Little, sent on a special mission by the King. The ending of the story will delight young readers as they discover “good” exists in the world if they look and listen for it.

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Katy Lee

Warning Signs

$4.61

25 reviews, 5 stars

Christian Inspirational/Suspense

http://bit.ly/Katy_Lee

GUILTY UNTIL PROVEN INNOCENT:  When a drug-smuggling ring rocks a small coastal town, the DEA sends Agent Owen Matthews to shut it down. A single father with a deaf son, Owen senses that the town's number one suspect—the high school's new principal—doesn't fit the profile. Miriam Hunter hoped to shrug off the stigma of her hearing impairment when she returned to Stepping Stones, Maine. But her recurring nightmares dredge up old memories that could prove her innocence—and uncover the truth behind a decades-old murder. Yet Owen's help may not be enough when someone decides to keep Miriam silenced—permanently.

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