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Tuesday, July 24, 2012

Interview & Giveaway! Darlene Shortridge ~ Author of Until Forever!


Welcome to Christian Bookshelf Reviews, Darlene! Will you tell us a little about yourself? 

Lately I have been a bit of nomad, although we have truly settled in Oklahoma City Oklahoma. I am married to a great guy who writes a bit of non-fiction himself, so our household is always on the go. Our daughter is entering her first year of college, majoring in none other than English (who'd have thunk it?) and we homeschool our nine year old son. I absolutely love to cook and entertain. I want a big house, not to have bragging rights, but to have lots of room to hold lots of people. I have issues. I love to feed people. When I have downtime, I enjoy scrapbooking and card making. I got hooked a few years ago. It's a great way to just "not" think!

What is Until Forever about?

Until Forever is a story about forgiveness, of one’s self, of one another and from the world’s point of view, of God (not that He has done anything to need forgiveness for). Jessi, the wife of Mark, finds forgiveness hard to swallow when her husband gets into a car accident after drinking while their young son in the backseat. How do you forgive someone when they have done something “unforgivable?” As in real life, things are not always easy. Sometimes they are down right hard. This story will have you laughing and crying, and sometimes, it just might make a difference in someone’s life.

What is something the average reader wouldn't know about you?

I love to treasure hunt at Goodwill and garage/rummage sales. My nine year old will point out the signs to me to make sure I don’t miss one if we are out and about. I’ve created a monster! He gets mad if we miss one.

When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

When I was in college I absolutely loved my writing classes. I had this epiphany. Why was I majoring in voice performance when I hated my voice classes? I ended up leaving college and I started writing, although my first novel, Until Forever, didn’t come until much later.

How many books have you written/published and do you have a favorite? 

I am currently working on book two in the Women of Prayer Series, Forever Blessed. I’m thinking it must be true what they say that a writer’s favorite work is the one they are working on. It’s a tough write as it deals with domestic violence. Not a pretty subject and one most people would like to sweep under the rug.

What would you say is your most interesting writing quirk?

I’m not sure you would call this a quirk, but I have a steadfast rule. We don’t interrupt mom when she is
writing unless we are bleeding and/or dying. My husband had to be taught that rule when he was home for an extended period of time. Just sayin’.

Where do you like to write? 

I prefer writing on a balcony overlooking the ocean. But, since that has never actually happened, I’ll write wherever I can obtain some peace and quiet. I have also been known to write with a blaring video game in the background. My ability to tune things out has really come in handy for this vocation. Although I must admit my son has watched a few programs that he wouldn’t have otherwise been permitted to see.

What do you like to do when you're not writing?

I love spending time with my family. Just today we were driving down the road after a trip to Goodwill and the kids were arguing in the backseat and I just smiled. Having us all together, regardless of where we are, gives me the greatest joy.

Is there a place you’d like to visit, but haven’t yet? 


There are so many places that I want to visit. I would have to say Ireland and Israel are at the top of the wish list. To walk where Christ walked will be a very emotional trip for me. I’m looking forward to it. And Ireland because it is where mine and my husband’s family is from.

Do you have a favorite song and/or movie? 

At the moment, my favorite song is How He Loves by David Crowder Band and my top movie of many years is and probably always will be A Good Year, with Russell Crowe. The movie has a bit of a language issue, (some are English swear words and those just don’t count!) but the message of the overall movie is what gets me. I love that movie. I watch it anytime I need reminding of what is truly important.

What is your favorite dessert? 

Hands down Crème Brulee. Of course, if that isn’t available then hand me anything chocolate and we’re good to go.

Do you have a favorite Bible verse? 

Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. (James 1:2-4) It seems as if the last few years of my life have been defined by these verses. What a joy to know that God thought of me when He wrote them.

Here are a few this-or-that questions:

Snowstorms or Thunderstorms? I lived in Wisconsin for many years and when I lived in the country, there was nothing more beautiful than a snowstorm. The snow glistening on tree branches, shining in the moonlight was amazing.

Tea or Coffee? Tea. Of course, a white chocolate mocha with three pumps of toffee nut, stirred from Starbucks would take first place, but that is a treat, not a regular occurrence.

Print or eBook? Print. Unless I am traveling and don’t have enough room for all the books I want to take. Then, my Nook.

Early-bird or Night-owl? This one is super easy. Night owl. Not a single “but” for this one.

Cats or Dogs? Oh dogs all the way. I have a saying about cats I think would make a great bumper sticker but I will refrain as I’d probably make some cat lovers hate me.

Are you currently working on any new novels? If so, could you give us a hint?

I mentioned above that I am working on book two in the Women of Prayer Series. It is also an issue driven story. Laney is on the run with her three children from an abusive husband. Paul is bound and determined to find his insolent wife, no matter what it takes, and he will make her pay when he does. How can a woman trust a father figure God when all she’s known her whole life is abuse at the hand the men in her life? Forgiveness, grace and mercy seem to be the predominant themes running through my stories, at least for this series. Forever Blessed should be available later this summer.

Thanks so much for being here! Is there anything else you’d like to tell readers and
where can we find you on the web?

I love to hear from my readers.  It really makes my day.  You can friend me on facebook at:  https://www.facebook.com/darlene.shortridge or https://www.facebook.com/AuthorDarleneShortridge

You can also find me on twitter at:  https://twitter.com/#!/ShortridgeD

You can also follow my blog if your so inclined at:  http://www.darleneshortridge.blogspot.com/ And my website is:  http://www.darleneshortridge.com/

It’s been great Melanie, thank you for having me! I look forward to hearing from your readers.

Book giveaway!


Here is how this giveaway works. If the winner lives in the US they have the choice between a print or eBook copy of Until Forever, but if the winner lives outside of the US, they'll receive an eBook copy. Open Internationally!

Enter via the Rafflecopter below.


a Rafflecopter giveaway

50 comments:

  1. I like the premise of this book: forgiveness.
    Thanks for a chance to win it!

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  2. Thanks for the giveaway!!!
    God Bless!
    Sarah Richmond
    sarahrichmond.12@gmail.com
    Blanch,N.C.

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  3. This sounds like a wonderful book! You sound very much like me, Darlene :) Except I consider myself to be a crazy cat lady....I love dogs too! But one day, I'm totally gonna have like 20 cats...ok maybe not :)

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  4. What a neat book! I would love to enter! Thanks for the opportunity to!
    Bethany

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  5. I really want to read this book! Thanks for the giveaway.

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  6. Thank you for the giveaway...It looks fantastic..

    ronnkelly3@aol.com

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  7. I love this from the review above:


    What would you say is your most interesting writing quirk?

    "I’m not sure you would call this a quirk, but I have a steadfast rule. We don’t interrupt mom when she is
    writing unless we are bleeding and/or dying. My husband had to be taught that rule when he was home for an extended period of time. Just sayin’."

    We have that rule in my house when I am "crafting!" (that includes sewing or stamping)

    Thanks for the interview and a chance to win!

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  8. Haven't heard of this book yet, but it sounds good!

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  9. I really like the answers Darlene Shortridge gave to the questions. I subscribed to her Facebook page.I hope to win a copy of this interesting book. It appeals to me for the relationships and forgiveness.
    Cyndee Thomas
    cyndee.thomas0@gmail.com

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  10. Enter me this book looks like a great read!!

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  11. Thanks for the chance to win!

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  12. Sounds like a wonderful book. Thanks for the interesting interview.

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  13. Thanks for the great Interview, I love reading them. Your Book sounds so good I can't wait to read it. Please add me to your giveaway.
    Blessings

    ingrids62448(at)yahoo(dot)com

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  14. This sounds like a great book! Thanks for the giveaway.

    nancyecdavis AT bellsouth DOT net

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  15. A balcony overlooking the ocean -- the sound of the waves -- it would probably put me to sleep, tho. That would not be the best for writing!

    puttputt1198eve(at)comcast(dot)net

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  16. Sounds like a great read.Thank you for the chance to win it .Have a fantastic week.
    wanda flanagan
    flanagan@mebtel.net

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  17. Thanks for the give away! I love me some free books:)
    _ Madilyn Leatherwood

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  18. What an intriguing title! :) I'd love to win. Thanks for the giveaway, Melanie!

    biblioprincess15 (at) yahoo (dot) com

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  19. Sounds like a great book. I love books that can take you from laughing to crying and still have a great message! Thanks for the giveaway!

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  20. I loved all your answers Darlene! Half of the time I felt like someone was describing me, lol. Although I like dogs AND cats. ;-) It sounds like you are dealing w/ some tough issues and questions biblically in your books, and for that I thank you and hope you will impact many readers for the Lord.

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  21. Wow! What a great group! Love hearing from each and every one of you! Melanie, thanks so much for the interview opportunity. You Rock!

    Blessing to all!

    In Christ's love,
    Darlene

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  22. I have been wanting to read this! Good luck with writing the next book in the series.

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  23. I have been wanting to read this! Good luck on the next one in the series.

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  24. I loved this article...This book sounds good.I love the cover.Thanks for the contests.

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  25. Oh wow I love hunting for antiques at the Goodwill and yard sales. I recently scored a 1910 typewriter desk for thirty dollars, which I am using as a computer desk.I would love a chance to read your book, I just love the cover! kittycrochettwo At msn dot com

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  26. You are a new author for me but the book looks like a great story, thanks for sharing. I am over from goodreads and love the folks there.
    Paula O(Kyflo130@yahoo.com)

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  27. Enjoyed reading your answers in the interview.
    Nancy Porter

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  28. Sounds like a wonderful book. Thanks for the giveaway! Gale
    pgan427 at yahoo dot com

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  29. sounds a nice an romantic;s novel...
    please count me in..
    thx u for the giveaway :)

    chikojubilee at gmail dot com

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  30. Until Forever looks like a great one!
    Amy Campbell

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  31. I love to antique/bargin hunt... not so much Goodwill, but I do stop in there once in a while! Would love a copy of this book.

    Patty
    pattymh2000(at)yahoo(dot)com

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  32. I have this book on my TBR list,it looks great. Thanks for the opportunity to win.=)

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  33. I haven't read any books by this author yet. It sounds interesting. :)

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  34. The girl on the cover looks just like someone I know wow! Sounds pretty good!

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  35. The Goodwills in the north are much better than the ones we have found in the south. I probably won't frequent those too much anymore. But...I see a lot of thrift stores to explore and there are tons of garage sales...I am getting excited!

    Thanks everyone...exciting stuff is happening. Forever Blessed, book two in the series will be available this weekend for the Kindle...shortly thereafter for the paperback. We are a bit excited at our house. :)

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  36. I am a total night owl too. We must unite-- why does the world operate on a morning person schedule anyway? ;-) Can't wait to check out this book!

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  37. Great interview. Would love to read this book! Thanks for the giveaway. julierupert@gmail.com

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  38. This sounds like a great book; loved the interview with the author. Thanks for the giveaway! =)

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  39. This books ounds great. I also really enjoy the interview with the author :)
    Thanks for the chance to win!
    God Bless!

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  40. oh, this sounds like a book I'd love thanks for the interview and giveaway

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  41. This book sounds great! Thanks for hosting a giveaway!

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  42. Thank you for the giveaway, would love a copy!

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  43. This looks like a great giveaway. My username is the same I used to make this comment. =)

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  44. Thanks for the chance to win!!!!! Can't wait to see who receives this super cool book:)

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  45. What if it's Hawaii? Can I still get a print :) I know a lot of people consider it "International". Drives me bonkers!

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  46. Looks like its a great book! Thanks for the giveaway

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Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. ~ Philippians 4:8

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