I enjoy plunking away at the keys, weaving together Inspirational Suspense and Mystery Novels as well as writing a weekly Christian article.
I live in North Carolina between the wondrous mountains and beautiful beaches. Every chance I get to explore these two picturesque places I travel three hours (in either direction) and bask in the splendor.
My most favorite pastime is fishing and of course, reading, not necessarily in that order and often together.
One of my dislikes is labels. I am a Christian, but I don't like church regulations. I strive to follow Jesus and his teachings. By no means am I perfect, That's why I am thankful for God's forgiving mercy. My Christian articles can be found at Examiner
Please tell me about your novel. Who or what was your inspiration behind it?
My novel is called “Escape to Big Fork Lake,” here’s a little about the book.
Will an inheritance bring new happiness or a trap for murder?
Bad luck seems to follow Sam Blacker. She loses her job and faces daily struggles keeping her drunken neighbor away from her.
When an unexpected inheritance gives her a chance for a new beginning, Sam, a city girl at heart is hesitant. However, after a brutal attack she has no choice.
Making a decision that will forever change her life she flees to the small fishing town of Big Fork Lake, Alabama and soon finds herself in the arms of Noah Frye. A tumultuous relationship with Noah sparks buried desires of the heart, even if he is a Christian, surely, she can get around that little problem.
As Sam and Noah’s passion grows trouble lurks in the shadows, waiting and watching. Inescapable, Sam’s bad luck returns when she stumbles upon a murder and becomes the only suspect. Will she have to run again, this time to stay out of prison? Worse, will she lose the best man she’s ever found? And what about the newfound hunger in heart to know God—can she truly trust in Him?
The desire to write “Escape” came from a need to shine a light on situations in life. Problems that make us all question why things happen that seem unfair.
What has been the toughest criticism given to you as an author? What was the biggest compliment? Did those change how or what you did in your next novel?
The toughest criticism I’ve received (so far) was from a reviewer. The lady commented my inspirational novel wasn’t Christian enough. I took a moment to explain that I write Inspirational fiction that’s a bit on the edge, meaning, I don’t shy away from situations, which happen. I tackle problems as any human being would-only with a prospective seeped in faith. The best remark I have heard centers around my novels being about God’s grace without being “preachy.” Alas, my goal is to shine a light on hope and faith, not to stuff opinions down a reader’s throat. These thoughts really haven’t changed the way I scribe, in each novel, I write the way I believe God leads me.
When you sit down to write, do you do it the old-fashioned way with pen and paper or do you use a computer? Do you prefer one way or the other?
I’m behind times a lot of ways, but I love the computer. I may jot down a few thoughts, but my serious writing is done on my computer. I’ve never been perfect for creating my paragraphs the first time, so deleting is easier than marking out lines on paper.
What has been your favorite part of being an author? What has been your least favorite?
My favorite part is creating the character’s and giving them personalities.’ I think I’m with all authors when I say the thing that makes me cringe is editing.
What do you do when you are not writing? Do you pick up some from you to be read pile?
I have a very busy life. When I’m not with my characters, I keep my grandsons every day when schools out, look after my mom who struggles with her memory, and support my husband. He is an associate pastor. Somewhere in there I find time to read the Bible first, then an inspirational novel.
What is your favorite junk food vice?
One person junk food is another’s must have. I need pizza with mushrooms!
Besides writing and reading, what is your most favorite thing to do?
Any kind of fishing, though I love coastal fishing. Two years ago, I caught a 40-pound Red Snapper. It was my first big fish that weighed over 13 pounds.
We all have our little things when it comes to reading, is there anything that bugs you when you read a novel? What is it?
Oh yes, this stems back to a previous response. I read inspirational stories, but I want the characters to be real to life. No one is perfect. It doesn’t matter if a person is religious or not, we all face trials and temptations. It's how we handle those situations is that sets us apart. If I’m reading a book, and the couples are in a relationship I expect them to kiss.
Which is your favorite character in your book and why?
My favorite is Noah Frye the man who becomes the main character’s love interest. I can’t help being a softy for a country guy in jeans who loves the Lord.
Is there anything else that you would like to share or say to those who will read this interview?
Thanks, I would like to speak about my second novel “Stone of Destiny” which should be out this summer. I hope you don’t mind a blurb.
The sapphire is said to symbolize mental clarity, faithfulness and truth. For centuries, the legion of the Harrison family revolved around a ring. The family stone believed to have divine favors that transform lives-sometimes forever.
Taylor has given up on everything but her work. After becoming the youngest CEO of Mugful’s Beverage Company, she believes life is complete. That is until her grandmother asks her to oversee renovations at the family home, in addition to searching for a missing heirloom.
First contact with what she believes is an insignificant ring, lost for fifty years, sends her life spinning. Taylor experiences strange dreams. Feelings surface; she doesn't understand; mere thoughts that should remain unspoken, are voiced.
Taylor’s emotional journey begins, testing a heart as cold as the ring itself-forcing her to question everything she believes.
Is this a fairy-tale or her soul, reaching out for a different world, a life she can only find through faith and a divine trust in God?
I live in North Carolina between the wondrous mountains and beautiful beaches. Every chance I get to explore these two picturesque places I travel three hours (in either direction) and bask in the splendor.
My most favorite pastime is fishing and of course, reading, not necessarily in that order and often together.
One of my dislikes is labels. I am a Christian, but I don't like church regulations. I strive to follow Jesus and his teachings. By no means am I perfect, That's why I am thankful for God's forgiving mercy. My Christian articles can be found at Examiner
Please tell me about your novel. Who or what was your inspiration behind it?
My novel is called “Escape to Big Fork Lake,” here’s a little about the book.
Will an inheritance bring new happiness or a trap for murder?
Bad luck seems to follow Sam Blacker. She loses her job and faces daily struggles keeping her drunken neighbor away from her.
When an unexpected inheritance gives her a chance for a new beginning, Sam, a city girl at heart is hesitant. However, after a brutal attack she has no choice.
Making a decision that will forever change her life she flees to the small fishing town of Big Fork Lake, Alabama and soon finds herself in the arms of Noah Frye. A tumultuous relationship with Noah sparks buried desires of the heart, even if he is a Christian, surely, she can get around that little problem.
As Sam and Noah’s passion grows trouble lurks in the shadows, waiting and watching. Inescapable, Sam’s bad luck returns when she stumbles upon a murder and becomes the only suspect. Will she have to run again, this time to stay out of prison? Worse, will she lose the best man she’s ever found? And what about the newfound hunger in heart to know God—can she truly trust in Him?
The desire to write “Escape” came from a need to shine a light on situations in life. Problems that make us all question why things happen that seem unfair.
What has been the toughest criticism given to you as an author? What was the biggest compliment? Did those change how or what you did in your next novel?
The toughest criticism I’ve received (so far) was from a reviewer. The lady commented my inspirational novel wasn’t Christian enough. I took a moment to explain that I write Inspirational fiction that’s a bit on the edge, meaning, I don’t shy away from situations, which happen. I tackle problems as any human being would-only with a prospective seeped in faith. The best remark I have heard centers around my novels being about God’s grace without being “preachy.” Alas, my goal is to shine a light on hope and faith, not to stuff opinions down a reader’s throat. These thoughts really haven’t changed the way I scribe, in each novel, I write the way I believe God leads me.
When you sit down to write, do you do it the old-fashioned way with pen and paper or do you use a computer? Do you prefer one way or the other?
I’m behind times a lot of ways, but I love the computer. I may jot down a few thoughts, but my serious writing is done on my computer. I’ve never been perfect for creating my paragraphs the first time, so deleting is easier than marking out lines on paper.
What has been your favorite part of being an author? What has been your least favorite?
My favorite part is creating the character’s and giving them personalities.’ I think I’m with all authors when I say the thing that makes me cringe is editing.
What do you do when you are not writing? Do you pick up some from you to be read pile?
I have a very busy life. When I’m not with my characters, I keep my grandsons every day when schools out, look after my mom who struggles with her memory, and support my husband. He is an associate pastor. Somewhere in there I find time to read the Bible first, then an inspirational novel.
What is your favorite junk food vice?
One person junk food is another’s must have. I need pizza with mushrooms!
Besides writing and reading, what is your most favorite thing to do?
Any kind of fishing, though I love coastal fishing. Two years ago, I caught a 40-pound Red Snapper. It was my first big fish that weighed over 13 pounds.
We all have our little things when it comes to reading, is there anything that bugs you when you read a novel? What is it?
Oh yes, this stems back to a previous response. I read inspirational stories, but I want the characters to be real to life. No one is perfect. It doesn’t matter if a person is religious or not, we all face trials and temptations. It's how we handle those situations is that sets us apart. If I’m reading a book, and the couples are in a relationship I expect them to kiss.
Which is your favorite character in your book and why?
My favorite is Noah Frye the man who becomes the main character’s love interest. I can’t help being a softy for a country guy in jeans who loves the Lord.
Is there anything else that you would like to share or say to those who will read this interview?
Thanks, I would like to speak about my second novel “Stone of Destiny” which should be out this summer. I hope you don’t mind a blurb.
The sapphire is said to symbolize mental clarity, faithfulness and truth. For centuries, the legion of the Harrison family revolved around a ring. The family stone believed to have divine favors that transform lives-sometimes forever.
Taylor has given up on everything but her work. After becoming the youngest CEO of Mugful’s Beverage Company, she believes life is complete. That is until her grandmother asks her to oversee renovations at the family home, in addition to searching for a missing heirloom.
First contact with what she believes is an insignificant ring, lost for fifty years, sends her life spinning. Taylor experiences strange dreams. Feelings surface; she doesn't understand; mere thoughts that should remain unspoken, are voiced.
Taylor’s emotional journey begins, testing a heart as cold as the ring itself-forcing her to question everything she believes.
Is this a fairy-tale or her soul, reaching out for a different world, a life she can only find through faith and a divine trust in God?
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ISBN-13: 978-0615618265
Publisher: Inspired Romance Novels
Softcover (188 pages)
Kindle
Purchase the book: Amazon
Book blurb:
Will an inheritance bring new happiness or a trap for murder? Bad luck seems to follow Sam Blacker. She loses her job and faces daily struggles keeping her drunken neighbor away from her. When an unexpected inheritance gives her a chance for a new beginning, Sam, a city girl at heart, is hesitant. However, after a brutal attack she has no choice. Making a decision that will forever change her life she flees to the small fishing town of Big Fork Lake, Alabama and soon finds herself in the arms of Noah Frye. A tumultuous relationship with Noah sparks buried desires of the heart, even if he is a Christian, surely, she can get around that little problem. As Sam and Noah’s passion grows trouble lurks in the shadows, waiting and watching. Inescapable, Sam’s bad luck returns when she stumbles upon a murder and becomes the only suspect. Will she have to run again, this time to stay out of prison? Worse, will she lose the best man she’s ever found? And what about the newfound hunger in heart to know God—can she truly trust in Him?
Contact the author: Website | Facebook | Twitter
Glad to hear you weren't put off by a reviewer who didn't 'get' what you were trying to do with your writing. Eagerly anticipating Stone of Destiny!
ReplyDeleteThanks so much. I know you understand -we take the good with the bad. :)
ReplyDeleteHaving read Mary's first novel I'm looking forward to the release of Stone of Destiny, in September. Mary has a way of bringing in real life drama so readers can relate. But also showing how God uses things in our lives to bring us closer to Him. Enjoyed this interview. Blessings~
ReplyDeleteEscape to Big Fork Lake is an awesome read. I can't wait for Stone of Destiny. Mary is such a great writer.
ReplyDeleteI think all inspirational and Christian fiction writers can relate- God leads us in the direction he wants, providing we let him.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the comments. Stone of Destiny- my newest will be available Sept.11.
ReplyDeleteYea, the paperback of Stone of Destiny is available today-eBook to come.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=Stone%20of%20Destiny%20Mary%20L.%20Ball
Pam's blog is great! Thanks Pam for having me.
ReplyDelete