Craftie Ladies - Love Inspired Historical October 2016 Release

 

Below is the October new release from one of our talented Love Inspired Historical writers here at the Craftie Ladies of Romance. To buy this wonderful book, just click the book cover. And to learn more about the author, click on her name.

A FAMILY FOR THE HOLIDAYS
by Karen Kirst
 Her Guardian Groom

Paid to accompany two orphaned siblings to their grandfather in Nebraska, Lily Winter is dismayed to discover the old man has gone missing. And when the children's inheritance makes them a target, buying protection is Lily's only option. Until a handsome gun-for-hire suggests another solution: marriage.

Undercover US Marshal Jake Elder can't reveal his true identity without blowing his mission. Nor can he leave the town's pretty new arrival unguarded. But while uncovering a plot against her charges is difficult and risky, falling for Lily is all too easy. Especially once their marriage in name only gives Jake a glimpse of how wonderful Christmas—and their future as a family—could be.

Blessings and Book Ideas

Rhonda Gibson here:

You know that moment when you know you are truly blessed? Well, today I feel that way. I love that Love Inspired publishes historical romances. The month of June is when Pony Express Hero comes out. And, I'm blessed to share the bookshelves with these other three books.





I've had the pleasure of reading other books by Janet, Karen and Lily and know their books are great! So I'll be buying all three when they show up at my Walmart. It is a blessing to be in such great company.

I'm also blessed that I come across such interesting things that bring about the ideas for my books. The idea for Pony Express Hero came when I read an article about a hugh Texas ranch and how the owner died leaving his daughter in charge of the ranch. The author of the article jokingly wrote, "I wonder if she had a hard time finding an honest husband?" That question got my brain to thinking and soon Pony Express Hero was born.

If you are a writer/author, how did you come up with the basic idea for your current book?
If you are a reader, have you come across any ideas that you'd like to see as the basic idea in one of our books? Inquiring minds want to know.

Craftie Ladies - Love Inspired Historical Cowboy Creek Continuity Series/Giveaway!

April is here, and that means that the new Love Inspired Historical three-book Cowboy Creek continuity series is making its debut. Leave a comment to win a copy of the series!

Craftie Lady Sherri Shackelford is the author of the second book in the series. She's here to tell us about how the series came to be and what it's like to work on a continuity. Take it away, Sherri...

The Cowboy Creek series is about three friends who served together in the Civil War. After the war, instead of returning to their hometowns, they start a new town in Kansas--Cowboy Creek. The three men soon realize the town needs more ladies, and they send for mail order brides. The arrival of the first 'bride train' in Cowboy Creek kicks off the series.

Cheryl was asked to launch the series, and once she accepted, Karen Kirst and I were brought on board. For a continuity, the editors cook up a story and write down the particulars in a document referred to as the 'bible'. The editors provide an overview for the story arc, although the authors are given leeway with their individual books. For example, in the original bible for Special Delivery Baby, my character, Tomasina Stone, was supposed to wave to her man as he rode off to do man's work at the end of the story. Which, of course, would never happen! My feisty heroine would be front and center in the action. I decided on a much lighter, happier ending that was more in tune with the character and the tone of my book.

I hope you enjoy the stories of these three heroes who share  friendships forged by the bonds of war.

Thanks, Sherri. We wish you well on the upcoming launch of Special Delivery Baby. And now for the books...

Want Ad Wedding

Book 1 in the Cowboy Creek continuity series
April 2016 release

by Cheryl St.John

Second Chance Bride 

When Daniel Gardner convinced the residents of his Kansas boomtown to advertise for mail-order brides, he never expected the woman he once loved to respond. But Leah Swann steps off the bride train…pregnant and widowed and in need of a husband. Drawn to protect his fragile childhood friend, Daniel proposes a marriage of convenience.

Seeing her onetime best friend waiting to meet the bride train is a wonderful shock for Leah. After her first rocky marriage, a practical partnership with Daniel sounds perfect—as long as her heart doesn't get involved. But when she starts to fall for her husband, will her plans of a fresh start be ruined…or is a real marriage to Daniel exactly what she needs? 

Cowboy Creek: Bringing mail-order brides, and new beginnings, to a Kansas boomtown.

Special Delivery Baby

Book 2 in the Cowboy Creek continuity series
May 2016 release

by Craftie Lady Sherri Shackelford

Instant Daddy

An abandoned baby is the last thing town founder Will Canfield expects on his doorstep. He's not the father—and the mother's unknown. But the precious little girl needs a protector. And Will never backs down from a challenge, even if it means caring for a newborn…or dealing with spitfire cattle driver Tomasina Stone.
With her father gone, Tomasina's trail life has ended. Yet becoming a polished city lady feels far out of her reach. All she wants is a place where she'll be appreciated, respected…maybe loved. And the more time she spends helping Will care for the baby, the more she wonders if she's found it. She's never wanted to settle down…but Cowboy Creek—by Will's side—might finally give her heart a lasting home.
Cowboy Creek: Bringing mail-order brides, and new beginnings, to a Kansas boomtown.

Bride by Arrangement

Book 3 in the Cowboy Creek continuity series
June 2016 release

by Karen Kirst
 
Mail-Order Matchmaking 
Newly minted Cowboy Creek sheriff Noah Burgess doesn't want a wife—despite his friends insisting that he needs one. So when they send for a big-city single mother to be his mail-order bride, he's fit to be tied. Even if vivacious Grace Longstreet might just be the only person who can see past Noah's scars…and help him heal.

Grace needs a husband to keep her and her twin daughters out of her brother-in-law's grasp. And she'll do anything—including taking on her cousin's identity—to find one. But as the attraction between Grace and the lawman sparks higher, she begins hoping for a real marriage. So she needs to tell the truth…or a mail-order match that's meant to be could crumble.Cowboy Creek: Bringing mail-order brides, and new beginnings, to a Kansas boomtown.

A follow-up Cowboy Creek anthology, Cowboy Creek Christmas, will be released in October with two more stories for readers to enjoy, written by Cheryl St.John and Craftie Lady Sherri Shackelford.

Dream Vacations

Happy Spring, ladies! Karen Kirst here to talk about favorite vacation destinations. The sunnier, warmer days make me want to plan a trip. How about you? But where? The beach? Mountains? Maybe a quaint little town with a cozy bed and breakfast?

My favorite place to visit is the Czech Republic. That’s partially because my husband grew up there and his family still lives there. (We like to tease him that he’s now a redneck Czech.) But family aside, it’s a beautiful country with centuries-old castles, jaw-dropping cathedrals, stone-paved roads and the best hot chocolate I’ve ever tasted-so thick and rich it’s almost like pudding. I love the unique pottery, the Bohemian crystal and china. The bakeries and aisles of all types of salami and fresh-baked bread. Their stucco houses are often painted pastel colors, pale yellows and greens and pinks that brighten the long, snowy winters. I haven’t been for three years and am longing to go back!
What about you? What places do you like to visit? Or dream of visiting one day?

His Mountain Miss Interview with Lucian Beaumont

How exciting to have Lucian Beaumont, the hero from His Mountain Miss written by Karen Kirst, an April 2013 release from Love Inspired Romance .

Lucian, tell me the most interesting thing about you.

I suppose to these simple mountain folks, my French accent.  I’m from New Orleans, and my father and I converse only in French.  It’s not unusual for an odd word or two to slip into my conversation. Another thing is the formality of my clothing. The men here in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, are mostly farmers, so they don’t put a lot of emphasis on clothing.  I don’t think they’ve ever seen a cravat before.  Imagine. 

What do you do for fun?

This may sound strange, but I like to work with my hands.  Get dirty.  My life is dominated by social engagements, formal dinners and balls, so whenever I get a chance, I retreat to my country estate and work in the fields alongside my staff.

What do you put off doing because you dread it?

My beloved mother died a year ago, and I’ve avoided dealing with my loss.  I can’t seem to bring myself to grieve.

What are you afraid of most in life?

I’m afraid that if I give in to these terrible emotions-sorrow, disappointment, disillusionment-that I won’t survive.  So I bury it all, hoping I can ignore it.

What do you want out of life?

That’s not something I’m prepared to answer right now.  For a long time, I thought I wanted what was expected of me-to helm my family’s shipping empire and to marry for duty and social connections.  But this backwoods town-with its slower pace and down-to-earth, kind mountain folks-is growing on me, as is one particularly lovely young lady, Megan O’Malley. 

What is the most important thing to you?

Right now, surviving each day.  Not only am I dealing with my mother’s death, but a devastating betrayal and the long-held belief that my estranged grandfather wanted nothing to do with me.  My time here in Gatlinburg is revealing difficult truths about my family.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

I could use an extra dose of courage right about now.

Do you have a pet? If so, what is it and why that pet?

My horse, D’Artagnan, named after a character in The Three Musketeers.  I was   impressed that Megan immediately recognized the name.  Of course, she’s a book lover like me, so I shouldn’t be surprised. 

          

     

Book Series

BOOK SERIES

 Hello friends, Karen Kirst here.  I don’t know about you, but I truly enjoy reading romance series, successive books either by a single author or multiple authors that are linked in some way.  Sometimes the connection is family.  I remember well my first time reading the O’Malley series by Dee Henderson.  The books, which revolve around adoptive siblings, hooked me with the first chapter.  Other times, the connection is a career or workplace.  Love Inspired does a number of continuity series, and one of my favorites is the suspense series Texas Ranger Justice, featuring brave men and women in pursuit of justice.  A series can also be tied together simply by a town or business venture, such as in the Love Inspired Historical series, The Women of Swan’s Nest, by Victoria Bylin. Or Kathryn Springer’s Love Inspired Mirror Lake.  

Why do these appeal to readers?  Perhaps it’s because the characters become familiar to us, almost like family, and it’s a treat to revisit them in later books.  Or because we’re introduced to interesting secondary characters and are eager to get that next installment featuring their stories.  When I began writing what would become my first sale, I knew I wanted to do a series.  So I planned it around the O’Malley cousins, two families living in 1880’s Gatlinburg, Tennessee.  As a writer, I’ve had a blast creating their world, especially as I’m a native East Tennessean and grew up near the Smoky Mountains.  I’m half-way through, yet I already know I’m gonna miss it.

What about you?  What do you like/dislike about series?  And for writers, what do you find most challenging about them?  (I have trouble keeping up with their ages as time passes!)

 Here’s a description of my April 2013 book, His Mountain Miss, third installment of my Smoky Mountain Matches series. 

A Battle of Wills

New Orleans aristocrat Lucian Beaumont wants only to sell his estranged grandfather's property and escape the backwoods of Gatlinburg, Tennessee. But a stipulation in the will brings him head-to-head with a local beauty. Megan O'Malley and the town must have access to the house. For the first time in his life the commanding Lucian finds himself at an impasse.

Clearly the worldly gentleman doesn't fit in Megan's quaint Smoky Mountain town. But as she glimpses the man beneath the hardened veneer, she believes Lucian is here for a purpose. To heal his soul. And maybe, with Megan's help, to heal his heart.

 

Transitions

Hey everyone, Karen Kirst here to talk about life changes.  I mean BIG changes…like picking up your family and moving out of state or cross-country or even to another country.  Right now, our belongings are packed away in boxes.  The walls are bare and the swing set is gone and we’ve eaten enough sandwiches to last a lifetime.  After seven years, we’re waving goodbye to military life and reentering the civilian world.  On the one hand, I’m sad that I’m leaving. (Having an armed Marine at the gate of our housing complex makes a girl feel very safe!  We like to tell people we live in a gated community at the beach. lol) On the other hand, I’m excited to be going home to Tennessee.  To be close to family and friends again and be able to see those gorgeous Smoky Mountains.

Change can be scary.  Intimidating.  Painful.  But it can also be good.  There are a lot of unknowns in our future, but I’m trusting God to work it all out.  What about you?  Have you experienced any big moves?  What did you do to make the best of the situation?  Were there any surprises?  I’d love to hear about it!

 Like my Smoky Mountain Matches series, my October novella is set in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.  Here’s a description of both mine and Linda Ford’s novellas-

The Gift of Family

Merry Christmas, Cowboy by Linda Ford
A wild snowstorm strands Colt Johnson in Eden Valley, where the storekeeper's daughter exudes welcome warmth. She's even offered to give the two orphans in his charge a Christmas to remember. An outcast, Colt doesn't dare hope for more-even though Becca's love would be a Christmas wish come true.
Smoky Mountain Christmas by Karen Kirst
Cole Prescott's Gatlinburg visit will be just long enough to free his wife from their mistake of a marriage. Then he meets the daughter he hadn't known he had. Little Abby needs a father, especially at Christmastime. And all Cole wants is a chance to make a life with Rachel and Abby at last....

             

The Gift of Family Interview

How exciting to have Cole Prescott, the hero from The Gift of Family (Smoky Mountain Christmas) written by Karen Kirst, an October 2012 release from Love Inspired Romance.

1.     Cole, tell me the most interesting thing about you.

If you ask the folks of Gatlinburg, Tennessee, they’d likely say I’m not interesting.  They’d say I’m trouble.  All because my father stole church funds and hightailed it outta town.  They think that because I look like him, I must be like him so most everyone keeps their distance.

  

2.     What do you do for fun?

I don’t really do fun.  But I do get satisfaction from building things.  Guess that’s why I volunteered to make the props for this year’s Christmas pageant.  Oh, and to help my estranged wife Rachel out.

3.     What do you put off doing because you dread it?

Growing up an outsider, I learned to bury my emotions.  To keep people at a distance.  So I don’t like to examine my growing emotions for my wife.

4.     What are you afraid of most in life?

Now that I know about my daughter, Abby, I’m most afraid of losing my chance to be a father to her.  My wife and I had a forced marriage, and when she started to matter too much, I bolted.  I’m afraid Rachel won’t give me another chance.  I’m also concerned about the unidentified men who are trying to run me outta town.  I will do anything to protect my family.

5.     What do you want out of life?

I want another chance with my family.

6.     What is the most important thing to you?

My wife and daughter’s happiness.  I want to have good standing in this town so that they won’t be ostracized like me.

7.     If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?

I would go back to the night I left and, instead of running, stay and face my feelings.  I would have the courage to open my heart.  By running away, I missed out on the birth of my daughter. 

8.     Do you have a pet? If so, what is it and why that pet?

No pets, but little Abby already has me wrapped around her finger.  When she gets a little older, I’ll get her a kitten.

Summer Fun

Hello everyone, Karen Kirst here to talk about summer holidays.  To me, summer means a break from homeschooling, so I’m as eager for it as my kids are! Since my husband is a Marine, we live on a military base.  There are free pools for us to use and the beach is a short twenty minute drive away.  There are tons of parks, as well.  We take advantage of the inexpensive movie theaters on base and the summer reading program at the library. 

My favorite summer event is the 4^th of July celebration the base hosts every year.  While the kids take advantage of the bouncy houses, we get to listen to the 2^nd Marine Division band play outfitted in their dress blues.  Of course, what’s an event like this without funnel cakes and nachos and superhero-shaped ice cream that melts faster than the kids can eat it?  The best part, in my opinion, is the fireworks.  Those Marines really know how to put on a show!

What about you?  What are your favorites parts of summer?    

The Bridal Swap Interview

How exciting to have Kate Morgan, the heroine from The Bridal Swap written by Karen Kirst, a March 2012 release from Love Inspired Romance .

1. Kate Morgan, tell me the most interesting thing about you.

I’m a photographer, a profession usually reserved for men. I count myself fortunate that, because of my family’s wealth and connections, I’m able to afford

the equipment. And in our estate, there’s ample wall space for me to display my work. I’ve taken countless photos of my hometown, New York City, but now I’m looking forward to traveling to East Tennessee and taking some of the mountains and farms there.

2. What do you do for fun?

While photography is my passion, I also enjoy helping our gardener plant and care for our vast gardens. I’m a voracious reader, as well. I spend many hours in our library. I’ll be taking a crate or two of my favorite works with me to Tennessee.

3. What do you put off doing because you dread it?

Much of the time, I dread facing my mother. She adores my sister, Francesca, who can seemingly do no wrong. I, however, am a puzzle and disappointment to her. Currently, I dread facing Francesca’s fiancé. I meant, ex-fiancé , only he doesn’t know it yet. It’s been left to me to break the news to him, that she’s already married someone else. This isn’t going to be easy, I’m afraid.

4. What are you afraid of most in life?

Of being alone. Of never experiencing love. I haven’t been blessed with loving relationships in my life.

5. What do you want out of life?

I long for a family of my own to love and cherish. Professionally, I’d like to pursue my dream of setting up my own photography studio. I’m not sure that will be possible, however. My parents would have a fit if I entered the working classes.

6. What is the most important thing to you?

God first, then family.

7. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

At times, I’ve been naïve and too trusting. If I could go back, I’d change some decisions that drastically altered my life and even now, threatens my chance of future happiness.

Do you have a pet? If so, what is it and why that pet?

I don’t have any pets, but I do like horses. It’s not easy riding side-saddle, but I’m accustomed to it.

8. Can you tell us a little interesting tidbit about the time period you live in?

It’s 1880, and I’m excited about all the technological progress we’re making, the new inventions that will make our lives interesting and easier. The invention of the dry plate for our cameras, for instance, makes it possible to capture an image and not have to develop it right away. No more traveling dark tents. I’d better stop there. Once I get started on this subject, it’s hard to stop.

Have a nice day!

FEATURED BOOK: THE BRIDAL SWAP BY KAREN KIRST

The heiress Josh O'Malley has courted by mail is on her way to Gatlinburg, Tennessee, to become his wife. His dreams are coming true, and together, they'll create the family he's always wanted. But when the stagecoach arrives, it's not his intended who exits, but her sister, Kate!She came to end her sister's engagement, but with her duty completed, Kate Morgan is in no hurry to leave. She can't help but like the beautiful mountain town…and her sister's would-be groom. If only Josh would realize that his dream can still come true—and love can be found where least expected.

Featured Book: The Reluctant Outlaw by Karen Kirst

The ruthless criminal who took Juliana O'Malley hostage was a thief and an outlaw—or so she thinks. But on a perilous journey through the Smoky Mountains, he becomes her unlikely protector. And when he pledges to return her home safely, she somehow finds herself believing him.Evan Harrison has risked everything to find the men who killed his brother. Saving spirited, strong-willed Juliana could blow his cover with a deadly gang. Yet her courage and unwavering faith make him dream of the home and family he thought he could never have. And suddenly, that future is incomplete—without Juliana in it.

Today, we welcome Evan, from Karen Kirst's debut novel The Reluctant Outlaw.

1. Evan, tell me the most interesting thing about you.

I'm not who people think I am.


2. What do you do for fun?

I've been living a nightmare the past year, so I don't remember what fun is.

3. What do you put off doing because you dread it?

I dread telling Juliana, the young woman I've been protecting, who I really am.

4. What are you afraid of most in life?

I've already lost everyone important in my life. I can't go through that pain again, so I'm afraid of letting people get too close.

5. What do you want out of life?

Revenge. My brother was gunned down in cold blood, and I've vowed to track down his killers.

6. What is the most important thing to you?

I'm not sure anymore. I've been driven by the need to avenge my brother's death for so long, but now I have Juliana to think of. Right now, getting her to safety is my first priority.


7. Do you read books? If so, what is your favorite type of book?

Don't read much. I'd rather be working my land.

8. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

I wish I could let go of my anger and forgive the men who killed my brother, but I can't.


9. Do you have a pet? If so, what is it and why that pet?

I don't have a pet, but my horse Lucky is mighty important to me. He's loyal. Intelligent. Trustworthy. That's why I was steamed when Juliana stole him from me.

10. If you could travel back in time, where would you go and why?

I like 1880 just fine. Have you seen some of the clothes men used to wear? I wouldn't be caught dead in a powdered wig!

Memorable Firsts

By Karen Kirst

Our lives are full of firsts. First words. First steps. First day of school. First crush. First date. And who could ever forget their first kiss?  New experiences can be thrilling, joyous, and sometimes downright intimidating! That's how I'd describe this rollercoaster ride of a first sale and now a debut book on the shelves. This year has truly been a learning experience for me-from choosing character photos for the book cover to writing that first Dear Reader letter. It's been my dream for many years to write for Love Inspired, and now God has given me the desire of my heart.  I feel so blessed!

            Here's a little background about my September release, The Reluctant Outlaw. This is the first book in my series surrounding the O'Malley family, Smoky Mountain Matches, set in 1880's East Tennessee.

A Kidnapper—and a Gentleman?
The ruthless criminal who took Juliana O’Malley hostage was a thief and an outlaw—or so she thinks. But on a perilous journey through the Smoky Mountains, he becomes her unlikely protector. And when he pledges to return her home safely, she somehow finds herself believing him.
Evan Harrison has risked everything to find the men who killed his brother. Saving spirited, strong-willed Juliana could blow his cover with a deadly gang. Yet her courage and unwavering faith make him dream of the home and family he thought he could never have. And suddenly, that future is incomplete—without Juliana in it.

Smoky Mountain Matches: Dreams of home and family come true in the Smoky Mountains

Copyright [2011] by [Karen Kirst]
Permission to reproduce text granted by Harlequin Books S.A.

            So what about you? What's your most memorable first?