Interview and Giveaway with Susan F. Craft!

Hi, guys! V. Joy Palmer here! Since we are all friends here, you guys can call me Joy. ;-) And one of my favorite things to do is talk with my friends at coffee shops, then head to the bookstores. Yes, plural. After all, books and yummy drinks are the perfect combination! So consider this our virtual coffee shop. I'll wait a second for you to get your warm drink and a fuzzy blanket before we chat with today's guest. <3

Today we are going to pry into the private life of CHAT with author Susan F. Craft!

Susan F. Craft retired after a 45-year career in writing, editing, and communicating in business settings. Her most recent project, Freed by the Frontier, a collaboration of historical romantic novellas with Denise Farnsworth and Sherry Shindelar, was released by Wild Heart Books. The title of Susan’s novella is Wagon Road Serenade. The three books of her historical romance series, The Great Wagon Road, were published in 2024, and made her a #1 Amazon best-selling author. She wrote the historical romantic suspense trilogy Women of the American Revolution: The Chamomile, Laurel, and Cassia. The Chamomile and Cassia received national Illumination Silver Awards. The Chamomile was named by the Southern Independent Booksellers Alliance as an Okra Pick and was nominated for a Christy Award. She collaborated with the International Long Riders’ Guild Academic Foundation to compile An Equestrian Writer’s Guide (www.lrgaf.org), including almost everything you’d ever want to know about horses. An admitted history nerd, she enjoys painting, singing, listening to music, and sitting on her porch watching squirrels rob her bird feeder. She most recently took up the ukulele.

Connect with Susan on X at @susanfcraft, Instagram at susanfcraftauthor, Pinterest, Facebook, her Blog, her Historical Fiction Blog, and her Colonial Quills Blog!

Interview ~

This may be the most important question I ask -- no pressure or anything, LOL! 

*drum roll*

What are you drinking in our virtual coffee house? Coffee? Tea? Hot chocolate? Something else altogether?

I love Earl Grey tea. I fondly remember attending a “high tea” hosted by a friend’s church where the speaker introduced various flavors of tea, presented a history of tea, and demonstrated its proper serving. We had fun admiring the hats the ladies wore.

How fun! If you could order anything in the world to eat (we can dream, can't we?), what would it be?

Tastes of home—fried chicken, hoppin’ John, tomatoes still warm from the garden, and cornbread.

Yum! Where is your favorite place to write, and why is that your favorite place?

I write at the desk in my office. I surround myself with pictures I’ve come across in my research as well as pictures of people who remind me of my characters. I keep stacks of research books close by. I love music in the background, so I play favorites on my record player.

That's so nice! Do you have an odd habit that is only explained by your bookish, writer tendencies? Safe space. ;-)

Sometimes, when I need complete silence, I climb into my bed and throw the covers over my head. I’ve thought through many difficult scenes burrowed under the covers.

The wonders of a bed! What inspired you to write Freed by the Frontier?

I appreciate your purpose to uncover hidden “gems" in faith-based storytelling as well as your goal to connect readers with new and seasoned authors. I enjoy answering questions that provide readers with insights into me and my writing that might entice them to read my books, and I like reading the comments they make.

Clever! What led you to write in this genre? 

I am a history nerd who likes researching more than writing. My seventh-grade history teacher brought General Francis Marion to life for me and sparked my passion for the American Revolutionary War era. I’m also an unapologetic romantic thrilled by a good love story. Most importantly, I am a Christian, who delicately weaves faith into my stories.

Awesome! What message do you hope to convey to your readers?

I hope to convey a can’t-put-it-down story that transports readers to a well-researched, authentic setting, with engaging characters whose faith strengthens them through difficult challenges. One reader expressed this best in her review of Freed by the Frontier—"Three unforgettable romances prove that God’s greatest blessings often come disguised as our greatest challenges, and that true love can bridge any divide.”

Freed by the Frontier- Wagon Road Serenade

It’s 1754, Elizabeth Stanton, her reputation in tatters from a terrible injustice, arrives in Philadelphia from London seeking a second chance as a music teacher for a newly established women’s academy in Graniteville, a settlement in the Blue Ridge Mountains. She joins a wagon train, but scarred from her past experiences, she guards her heart and vows never to rely on a man again. James Morgan, a widowed trapper and farmer from Graniteville, after hearing a vile rumor about Elizabeth, regrets agreeing to drive one of the academy’s wagons. To Elizabeth, James is another handsome, charming scoundrel. To James, Elizabeth is a tainted woman to be avoided. After weeks of constant contact, they struggle against a growing attraction. James admires her willingness to help when needed as well as her friendship with eight-year- old Opal, one of a wagon load of orphans travelling with the train. Her soft soprano voice fills the nights with a melancholy sweetness. Her masterfully played notes on her mandolin make a home in his chest. Everything about her belies what he has been told. Had he received false information and misjudged? Elizabeth tries to remain cold and indifferent toward James, but when he saves her and Opal after Indians kidnap them, her heart softens. Will his terrifying knife fight with her kidnapper, his gentle treatment of her wounds, and his tenderness toward Opal erase all her misgivings? Is he a man she can trust with her heart? Will their hearts reject discord and blend into a serenade of love?

Very nice! Can you tell us a little about your next project(s)? 

I’m in the early stages of a story that takes place in the Appalachian Mountains in the 1750s on the cusp of the French and Indian War. The research fascinates me, and I’m learning so much about the mostly Scots-Irish settlers.

Sound interesting! Do you have a favorite Bible verse or story that inspires you on a soul level? 

Isaiah 40:31 "But those who wait upon the Lord will renew their strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not faint."

Beautiful! What are you currently reading? Inquiring minds -- mine! -- want to know. ;-)

Finishing Our Course with Joy by J.I. Packer.

Cool! Thanks for answering all of my prying questions, Susan!

Check out Susan's giveaway for her first book in her Great Wagon Road Series, Love's Winding Road!

Giveaway ~

The author is giving away one print copy to one US resident of the first book in her Great Wagon Road Series, Love's Winding Road!

This giveaway will close on 8/20/26 at 8:59 PM.

A winner will be drawn within four days of close of giveaway. The winner must respond to our e-mails within one week of notification, or their prize will be forfeit. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

And may the odds be ever in your favor. ;-)

Enter Giveaway HERE!

See you next time, and God bless you guys!!!

Hugs!

~V. Joy Palmer

V. Joy Palmer loves to write romantic and comedic stories that proclaim God’s deep love for us. In her spare time, Joy loves to sing (especially Disney songs), drink large quantities of coffee, and create aesthetic content for Bookstagram. When Joy isn’t fighting with fictional people, she’s hanging out with her husband and their adorable daughters. Connect with Joy via www.vjoypalmer.com!

Connect with Joy on her website, Facebook, Instagram, and Amazon Author Page!

Following God's Lead: A Conversation with Denise M. Colby

Denise M. Colby's path to becoming an author wasn't one she planned. From dancing down Main Street at Disneyland to building a career in marketing, each season prepared her for the moment God placed a story on her heart. Since then, she's been delighting readers with heartfelt historical fiction, memorable characters, and stories that unfold in unexpected ways.

In today's interview, Denise shares how a school field trip sparked her writing journey, why she's a proud discovery writer, the inspiration behind one of her readers' favorite characters, and how she balances a full-time career with writing books. She also gives us a glimpse of what's coming next—and how we can pray for her as she continues to follow God's leading.

As a special thank-you to readers, Denise is also giving away a digital copy of her debut novel to one lucky winner. Be sure to enter the giveaway after the interview!

Please join me in welcoming Denise Colby!

About Denise M. Colby

Denise M. Colby loves history and constantly finds herself contemplating how it was to live in the 1800’s.

She treasures the written word and the messages that can be conveyed when certain words are strung together. An avid journal writer, she usually can be found with a pen and notepad whenever she’s reading God’s word.

Born and raised in Northern California, Denise moved to Southern California for college and to dance in the parades at Disneyland (well, she might’ve picked the college so she could dance at Disneyland) and never left the area. She loves to read, watch movies with her family, sing 80’s and musical songs, tap dance, and spend date nights with her husband at ‘The Happiest Place on Earth’.

Denise is passionate about all types of stories—whether they are from songs, theatre, movies, or novels. Besides her novels, she has published two articles in compilation books and eleven magazine articles.

Every year Denise chooses a word to focus on. For 2026, her word is BALANCE. Releasing four books within a two-year period is definitely teaching her a lot about this word.

She shares her learnings about her focus word throughout the year, as well as behind the scenes tidbits from her writing. Sign up for her newsletter or you can follow Denise on her social media or her blogs.

Writing a book is definitely not as easy as it looks, but she wouldn’t change her journey. A member of multiple writing groups, she has made some amazing friends through the years. If you are interested in writing, send Denise a message and she would love to help direct you to a writing group where you can get plugged in.

Or you can check out her posts on the writers' blog, A Slice of Orange, as she shares her writing journey with other authors.

Follow Denise on social media: Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | X/Twitter

Suzie: Welcome, Denise. We are thrilled you are joining us this week. Tell us a little bit about yourself.

Denise: I grew taking dance class. Tap, jazz, ballet. All of it. I don’t think it ever leaves you. My favorite

has always been tap dance. I’ve taught private lessons in college and in recent years taught in my garage beginning tap. I even had a moms' class for a while and it was so fun. Sometimes I still pull out my shoes and dance. Besides tap, I was fortunate to be a choreographer for musical theater for seven years, teaching middle school students (including all three of my kids). Also, I grew up dreaming of wanting to dance at Disneyland, so I had moved to Southern California for college to do just that. Dancing down main street was my dream come true (which taught me a lot about going for your dreams). Plus, I met my husband there and stayed in the area. Now it’s our date night place.

 

Suzie: So much fun. I love that you reached for your dreams. What was the catalyst for your interest in writing?

Denise: I never planned on being an author, but after a school field trip to Sacramento with my oldest son, and visiting the one-room schoolhouse there, an idea for a story took root. It wasn’t until the same trip two years later with my second son that I attempted to actually write something. God put the desire on my heart, but it wasn’t anything I myself had thought of doing.

Suzie: God is pretty amazing the way he plants something in our hearts, isn't he? Do you have a day job? If so, how do you find time in your day to write?

Denise: During the day I work for a drainage company as a Sr. PIM Marketing Manager. I help organize and write the copy for our e-commerce pages that show up on Amazon, Lowe’s, Home Depot, and other companies. I get to work from home. So I start the day early with writing related tasks (and writing) and then pivot at my desk for work. When I’m on deadline I also write in the evening and weekends if needed. I’ve found writing sprints the best tool for me to write my books.

Suzie: Writing sprints are great motivators. Are you a night owl or morning person?

Denise: Can I be both? I wish my body agreed – lol.

Suzie: Do you reward yourself when a book is finished? If so, what is your favorite treat?

Denise: Yes - Ice Cream

Suzie: You can't go wrong with ice cream. Were there any surprises that came up as you wrote your story?

Denise: Always. I love how the story connects organically as I’m writing. Only God can do that. It’s a beautiful thing.

Suzie: It really is beautiful. Who was your favorite character to create? 

Denise: I love building all my characters and seeing them grow. But I think my favorite is Bert. He seems to be everyone’s favorite.

Suzie: Bert is a ton of fun. How did you come up with the names of your characters?

Denise: Some of the names are family names. I also do research online for the time period. I’ve even wandered around a cemetery taking notes (we were visiting family). I just shared in my newsletter how Bert’s name was chosen. I wanted a B name to honor my mom (Beverly), and I loved Bert in Mary Poppins.

Suzie: Those are great ways to determine character names. Are you a plotter or a panster?

Denise: I figure out my characters and some basic things overall, but I am definitely more a pantser.

Suzie: I am too. I really need to change that question to say "are you a plotter or a discovery writer." Are you part of a writing group?

Denise: Yes, I’m actually a part of several. They have all been amazing. I love the friendships and support I’ve built with all of them. I highly recommend joining them. The groups I’m a part of include:

Faith, Hope, Love Christian Writers – https://fhlchristianwriters.com

ACFW – https://acfw.com

Novel Academy – https://novel.academy

OCRW (Orange County Romance Writers) – https://ocrw.clubexpress.com 

Suzie: Wonderful groups, for sure. Do you have a favorite author or book?

Denise: Long before I wrote, I loved reading Deanne Gist, Mary Connealy, Jen Turano, Karen Witemeyer, Julie Klassen, and many more.

Suzie: There are a couple of my favorites on your list. What’s next for you as an author?

Denise: I’m currently writing a Christmas novella, and hope to write the other two teachers’ stories in the Best-laid Plans Series.

 

Suzie: Wonderful. More books for readers. How can we pray for you? 

Denise: My word this year is Balance. Working full time, building an author career, taking care of my health, and being present for my family and friends are all things I’m trying to juggle.

Suzie: Thank you for spending some time with us this week, Denise. And congratulations on your new book.

About A Whole New Plan

Sometimes God’s best plan is the one we never expected.

California, 1870. Pastor William Baker has built his life on faith, routine, and safe choices—until Lydia Spencer walks in and turns everything upside down.

Independent, outspoken, and guarded, Lydia is unlike any woman he’s ever known. She has no interest in church… and no intention of revealing the truth she’s hiding.

Because Lydia isn’t just a schoolteacher.

She’s a Pinkerton detective, sent west to track a dangerous crime boss—and she’ll do whatever it takes to protect those she loves, even if it means keeping her distance from the one man who sees straight through her defenses.

But when unexplained thefts shake their quiet small-town rural community, and a desperate boy appears with ties to a deeper mystery, Will and Lydia are forced into an uneasy partnership.

As danger closes in, so do their hearts.

What begins as a reluctant alliance soon becomes a forced proximity neither of them expected—and neither can ignore.

Yet the very things that draw them together may be the ones that tear them apart.

Lydia’s life is built on secrets.

Will’s is built on truth.

And when her past catches up with her, they’ll have to decide what matters most—holding on to their own plans… or trusting the One who sees the bigger picture.

Because sometimes surrender is the only way to find the life you were meant to live.

Set against the backdrop of the American West, A Whole New Plan is a heartfelt story of faith, courage, and a strong woman learning to trust again—woven with threads of mystery and hope.>

If you enjoy western Christian romances with elements of intrigue and heart, you’ll love A Whole New Plan—perfect for fans of Misty M. Beller and Mary Connealy.

Goodreads | Amazon

Giveaway

Denise is generously giving away one digital copy of her debut novel (When Plans Go Awry) to a lucky reader!

To enter:

1. 1. Answer this question in the comments: What dream has God placed on your heart that you're trusting Him with?

• 2. Include a way for us to contact you if you're selected (email address or social media handle is fine).

Giveaway Rules:

1. One winner will receive a digital copy of Denise's debut novel, When Plan Go Awry.

• The giveaway will remain open until at least five eligible entries have been received.
• Once five or more qualifying entries have been submitted, one winner will be selected at random and contacted using the information provided.
• 
  
• By entering, you agree that your comment may be publicly visible on this blog.

Good luck and thank you for visiting The Diamond Mine.

Kindle Freebie and Author Interview with Lynne Waite Chapman

Hi, guys! V. Joy Palmer here! Since we are all friends here, you guys can call me Joy. ;-) And one of my favorite things to do is talk with my friends at coffee shops, then head to the bookstores. Yes, plural. After all, books and yummy drinks are the perfect combination! So consider this our virtual coffee shop. I'll wait a second for you to get your warm drink and a fuzzy blanket before we chat with today's guest. <3

Today we are going to pry into the private life of CHAT with author Lynne Waite Chapman!

Born and raised in Northeastern Indiana, Lynne Waite Chapman is a lover of mystery and suspense, but most of all people. In September of 2016, she published her first cozy mystery. The debut novel Heart Strings—first in the Evelynton Murder series—was a 2016 semi-finalist in the American Christian Fiction Writers Association Genesis contest. The next three in the series, Heart Beat, Murderous Heart, and Caffeinated Murder continue the adventures of three friends in the small town Evelynton, Indiana.

Lynne Waite Chapman began her writing career writing weekly non-fiction content for the BellaOnline.com Hair site, drawing on her thirty plus years as a hairdresser. Retiring the Hair site, she spent the next fifteen years sharing her faith and penning weekly content for the BellaOnline.com Christian Living site.

She has been a regular contributor of devotions for several print publications and devotionals, and has written articles for many church bulletins and newsletters. She has also contributed articles to numerous internet publications.

For more information about current and past writing projects find her on Facebook, Amazon Author Page, Goodreads, Instagram, and follow on Twitter at @LWChapmanAuthor.

Interview ~

This may be the most important question I ask -- no pressure or anything, LOL! 

*drum roll*

What are you drinking in our virtual coffee house? Coffee? Tea? Hot chocolate? Something else altogether?

Do I have to choose one? I’m fond of all three. Everything in its time.

Perfect answer! If you could order anything in the world to eat (we can dream, can't we?), what would it be?

I’m a light eater. When I’m in a really good restaurant, I’ll order salmon or a creative salad.

Yum! Where is your favorite place to write, and why is that your favorite place?

Most of my time writing is done in my office. It’s a small room filled with book shelves loaded with my favorite books and some I haven’t read. The books inspire me to keep writing and reading. There is a really comfortable chair in my office that I’ve had for years. I may never replace it. The colors of the room are peaceful, white and gray, with accent shades of purple and maroon.

Sounds wonderful! Do you have an odd habit that is only explained by your bookish, writer tendencies? Safe space. ;-)

I often read a favorite book twice or three times. The second and third reading is to get to know the personalities of the characters or to catch a plot twist I’d missed. Is that odd?

It's not odd to me, LOL! What inspired you to write Death on Wolfe Mountain?

The main inspiration was to give my 3 main characters of the Evelynton murder series a new adventure. I’d been dealing with the subject of pride and how it reveals itself differently in each of us, so that would be a big part of it. The story begins with a hike through the woods and climbing an old bridge. I don’t do much hiking in the woods anymore but it’s one of my favorite things.

Cool angle! What led you to write in this genre?

I’ve always loved a mystery but not so much the sadistic crimes or evil criminals. Cozy mysteries are easy reads and are entertaining. If I can add a lesson or leave the reader thinking, all the better.

Love some cozy vibes! What message do you hope to convey to your readers?

I want my readers to be entertained and maybe read just for the fun of it. But I also want them to see the inner beauty of each character. The protagonist, antagonist, and all their friends, have reasons for their actions. My characters may be in comical and improbable situations but they’re deeply human and full of human frailty. I hope my readers come away with something to think about that is beyond the story line.

Love those layered characters! Can you tell us a little about your next project(s)?

I’m currently working on the third installment of the Secrets of Twin Fawn series. I would like to see the citizens of Twin Fawn experience a mystery during the Christmas season.

Awesome! Do you have a favorite Bible verse or story that inspires you on a soul level? 

The angel of the LORD encamps all around those who fear Him, and delivers them. Psalm 34:7

So good! What are you currently reading? Inquiring minds -- mine! -- want to know. ;-)

The Rising Tide by Ann Cleeves. This is a second reading.

Nice, and I love your callback to a second reading! ;-) Thanks for answering all of my prying questions, Lynne!

Check out Lynne's new release, Death on Wolfe Mountain, but keep scrolling for a kindle freebie offer - only available from January 28th through January 30th!

New Release ~

Three best friends reunite for a week of fun and festivities in this fifth installment of the Evelynton Series. A damper is put on the week when a casual hike results in the three stumbling onto a lifeless body.

Questions begin in the first chapter. Who was this man? Was his death accidental? Was it a suicide? Or was it murder?

Freelance writer and part-time receptionist, Lauren Halloren has unwittingly stumbled into a mystery that will once again pit her against local law enforcement, Officer Jimmy Farlow. When the three friends meet to delve into the circumstances surrounding the death, they find there is more than one mystery to be solved and many of the clues point to Lauren. One answer in their investigation leads to another question.

As Lauren continues to proclaim her innocence even friends begin to question her involvement.

Death on Wolfe Mountain is a fun mystery that will have you guessing and possibly leave you with a final question.

Check it out on Amazon! 

Kindle Freebie ~

The author is generously offering the kindle version of Heart Strings for free from January 28th through January 30th. 

Heart Strings is book one in the Evelynton Murder series. Grab your copy while you can at the link below!

Amazon.com: Heart Strings (Evelynton Murder Series Book 1) eBook : Chapman, Lynne Waite:

Kindle Store

See you next time, and God bless you guys!!!

Hugs!

~V. Joy Palmer

V. Joy Palmer loves to write romantic and comedic stories that proclaim God’s deep love for us. She’s a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and an avid blogger. In her spare time, Joy loves to sing (especially Disney songs), drink large quantities of coffee, and create aesthetic content for Bookstagram. When Joy isn’t fighting with fictional people, she’s hanging out with her husband and their adorable daughters. Connect with Joy via www.vjoypalmer.com!

Connect with Joy on her website, Facebook, Instagram, and Amazon Author Page!

Interview and Giveaway with Kimberly Burkhardt!

Hi, guys! V. Joy Palmer here! Since we are all friends here, you guys can call me Joy. ;-) And one of my favorite things to do is talk with my friends at coffee shops, then head to the bookstores. Yes, plural. After all, books and yummy drinks are the perfect combination! So consider this our virtual coffee shop. I'll wait a second for you to get your warm drink and a fuzzy blanket before we chat with today's guest. <3

Today we are going to pry into the private life of CHAT with author Kimberly Burkhardt!

Kimberly Burkhardt writes Christian historical romances with a mix of faith, love, and adventure. She enjoys researching American history and draws inspiration from the people and places of the Old West. Kimberly makes her home in Nebraska with her family and can usually be found with a good book or a great cup of coffee in hand. When not writing, she loves spending time with her family, being outdoors, and visiting historical sites around the Midwest. 

Connect with Kimberly on her website, Goodreads, Bookbub, Instagram, and Facebook!

Interview ~

This may be the most important question I ask -- no pressure or anything, LOL! 

*drum roll*

What are you drinking in our virtual coffee house? Coffee? Tea? Hot chocolate? Something else altogether?

Coffee in the morning and tea at night.

Sounds perfect! If you could order anything in the world to eat (we can dream, can't we?), what would it be?

My mom’s pot roast, with mashed potatoes, gravy, and green beans. It might not sound fancy but it has always been one of my favorite meals and I don’t get it very often since I don’t live close to my parents.

Classic and delicious! Where is your favorite place to write, and why is that your favorite place?

Outdoors. I have a glider swing in my backyard that I enjoy sitting on when the weather allows it. My view looks out to a small grove of pine trees. Beyond that, is a small farm. The animal sounds provide a nice ambiance and help spark my creativity when it comes to writing about the Old West.

That's so cool! Do you have an odd habit that is only explained by your bookish, writer tendencies? Safe space. ;-)

I am not aware of any odd habits but I’m sure my family would say otherwise. 

LOL! Those habits never feel odd to us, right? What inspired you to write The Carpenter's Schoolmarm?

I first began writing The Carpenter’s Schoolmarm in high school. At the time, I didn’t yet know where the story would lead—only that there were a few key moments I wanted to include. Like most new writers, I based my characters after people I knew at the time. But as the years went on and I kept revising, both the story and the characters grew right along with me. A lot of my inspiration came from reading Christian historical romances and watching old westerns. 

How fun! What led you to write in this genre?

I grew up watching Dr. Quinn, Bonanza, and Gunsmoke (thanks Mom and Dad) and I loved reading books by Lori Wick, Tracie Peterson, and Mary Connealy. Historical romance has been with me most of my life. It was only natural to want to write in this genre. Plus, I love learning about history in the 1800s.

We had similar childhoods! What message do you hope to convey to your readers?

The message I want to convey to readers with this story is that no matter how our lives are going or want to go, we must trust in God’s plan. I am still learning this lesion and reminding myself that even though I might not see what’s ahead, God has and I need to trust His guidance.

So, so true! Can you tell us a little about your next project(s)?

The second book in the Cooperton Brides series is with my editor and will be released March 2026. I am currently plotting the third book.

About The Blacksmith’s Songbird 

She longs for freedom. He offers hope.

Beneath the glow of the gaslight lamps and smoky haze of the Big Blue Saloon, nineteen-year-old, Laura Shining, feels like a songbird trapped in a cage. She longs for freedom, a life away from the leering eyes of the drunken cowhands and controlling saloon owners. As Laura dares to imagine a life beyond the saloon, a surprising source of strength arises from a group of faithful women in the town’s sewing circle. Through their wisdom and friendship, Laura begins to see her true worth.

Josiah Crawford took the job as blacksmith in Cooperton to help his family and to get away from the guilt of a friend’s death. He enjoys forging iron and is content spending his days shaping steel. It isn’t until a chance run-in with a spirited young singer that he begins to question his decision to stay a bachelor. A growing friendship blossoms, and Josiah soon feels himself wanting more than just a friendship.

When the saloon owner’s simmering jealousy turns violent, Laura must rely on courage, friendship, and the love of a man who has forged his way into her heart, to escape the saloon life.    

Will she be able to break free from her cage and finally sing the song that has been on her heart all along?  

Yay! Do you have a favorite Bible verse or story that inspires you on a soul level? 

At this time in my life, I have found John 16:33, to be a big part. I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.

So good! What are you currently reading? Inquiring minds -- mine! -- want to know. ;-)

Right now, I am reading Pretending to Wed by Melissa Jagears.

Fun! Thanks for answering all of my prying questions, Kimberly!

Giveaway ~

Kimberly is generously giving away an eBook copy of The Carpenter's Schoolmarm!

The Carpenter’s Schoolmarm

She’s running from her future. He’s hiding from his past.

Forced into an arranged marriage by her father, Samantha Baxter flees from the clutches of her fiancé and finds sanctuary in the small town of Cooperton, Kansas, as the new schoolmarm. Although she attracts the attention of some of the single men in town, Samantha remains cautious, knowing any romantic relationship could put that man in danger of her fiancé and his fury if he ever tracks her down.  

Michael Brooks finally has enough money to purchase the land where he will build his future home. He can put his criminal past behind him and find peace in the solitary life of crafting furniture for the people of Cooperton. That is, until he meets the new schoolmarm. She stirs a dream inside him he didn’t know he wanted. A wife and family to call his own. 

Despite her efforts, Samantha finds herself drawn to Michael, unable to deny her growing love for the handsome carpenter. But when his past and her future collide, will the two be able to trust in each other and in God’s plan? Or will their secrets keep them apart?

Giveaway Rules, Info, and Such ~

The author is giving away an eBook copy of The Carpenter's Schoolmarm that will be distributed through BookFunnel to one US resident! 

This giveaway will close on 12/18/25 at 11:59 P.M. for all the night owls. 

A winner will be drawn within four days of close of giveaway. The winner must respond to our e-mails within one week of notification, or their prize will be forfeit. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

And may the odds be ever in your favor. ;-)

Enter Giveaway HERE!!!

See you next time, and God bless you guys!!!

Hugs!

~V. Joy Palmer

V. Joy Palmer loves to write romantic and comedic stories that proclaim God’s deep love for us. She’s a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and an avid blogger. In her spare time, Joy loves to sing (especially Disney songs), drink large quantities of coffee, and create aesthetic content for Bookstagram. When Joy isn’t fighting with fictional people, she’s hanging out with her husband and their adorable daughters. Connect with Joy via www.vjoypalmer.com!

Connect with Joy on her website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Amazon Author Page!