Looking Out the Window: Mary Ball Talks About Her Latest Release, Sparks Of Love. Gives Away An E-Book.
A Warm Welcome to Mary Ball
Mary will give away an e-Book of Sparks of Love. To enter to win leave a comment and an email address below.
Hi Mary, first, tell us a little about yourself.
Thanks Gail, I live in North Carolina. When I’m not working on my latest story, I enjoy fishing, reading, and ministering in song with my husband at various functions. Some of my novels include Escape to Big Fork Lake, Redemption in Big Fork Lake, Stone of Destiny and Moment’s with God’s Word.
Many writers loved to read as children. Did you. If so, what did you read?
Yes, I enjoyed Nancy Drew books most of all. LOL, Now you know my age.
I’m a big Nancy Drew fan, and my daughter is also, so I'm still guessing. LOL
Let's talk about your writing. Why do you write?
I write to help readers see that God never gives up on people. He is always willing to welcome a repetitive heart. For me, it’s a part of my ministry.
Tell us about your latest book.
Sparks of Love
Ten years later, a phone call from her father offers hope when he announces he may have a clue to the unsolved crime that forced her to run. She’s scared, but encouraged. This could clear her name from slander in her small North Carolina hometown.
Tragedy strikes. A Fire destroys her childhood home and kills her father. While she sorts through the ruins and hopes to find the clue, Lynette meets the new pastor, Price Fletcher. She must face the two things that scare her most. The past and a man of God.
Someone wants the past to stay buried. Will Lynette stay alive long enough to prove her innocence and accept the love that is offered?
In three words describe your style of writing.
When I first began writing a reader told me that my books reminded her of a Grace Livingston Hill novel. I suppose that means that they offer, promise, redemption and love.
What themes do you write about?
Faith is the most prevalent subject matter. However, every one of my books has a character that is not a believer, or has strayed. Through the novel, he/she learns how to accept love, forgiveness, and grace offered through Jesus Christ.
What is your writing schedule and where do you write?
Right now, writing schedules do not work. I have commitments with an elderly mom (Alzheimer’s ) and Step-dad (Dementia and severe health issues.) They keep me busy at all times of the day. I usually devote time to my work-in-progress early in the mornings, while everyone else is sleeping. Then, as the day unfolds, I will sneak in writing times as I can. The evenings, before bedtime, offers a few hours to let my creative juices flow. I have a dedicated home office, but it’s not uncommon to find me on the front porch or sitting on my chase in the living room with my laptop.
I'm sorry for you family members' illnesses and wish God's blessings for them.
Does your faith affect your writing? How?
Most assuredly, my faith affects all my stories. Faith is a big part of who I am. Because it means so much to me, it adds a different perspective to my plots. When my characters face problems that don’t work out the way they want, they still must accept things, and find a way to be happy. Since, I’ve struggled with issues, and difficulties, I can lead my characters through their circumstances, no matter what they face, with an assurance that the Lord always paves a way. It may not be the road most wanted, but it’s one that still offers satisfaction.
What are you working on right now?
I have two manuscripts in the works. Thanksgiving Secret is one I’m polishing up. I hope to sub it soon. Asheville Hearts is a novella that I’m half-way through. I plan to send it to my publisher (Pelican Book Group) as part of a “Destination Romance” series.
I would like to share the blurbs with your readers.
Thanksgiving Secret
Decisions direct our destiny.Matthew Blake left home in search of fame. Years later, writer’s block threatens his career. He returns to his roots hoping to rejuvenate his creative juices. Unknown to Matt, he’s involved in a mystery that is soon to be unearthed.
Lucinda Wise rents her tiny house to Matt. Despite his self-centered ways she finds herself wanting to be around him, but timing is everything. She’s dedicated her life to her five-year-old daughter and will do anything to keep her safe.
When Lucinda discovers she is the partaker of a secret that will change their lives forever can she protect her daughter's future and let herself love again?
Asheville Hearts
Barbary Willis is one Los Alamos, New Mexico’s elite. She enjoys life on her own terms. A visit with her elderly grandfather has him recounting one of his fondest memories of a famous Western North Carolina attraction. She decides to take a trip to Asheville and tour Billmore Estate. What she discovers challenges everything she believes, and trusts.
Trace Youngbird accepts that not everyone appreciates his native roots. He’s learned that patience is the key to happiness and is content utilizing his degree in horticulture at the gardens in Billmore, but meeting high-spirited Barbary, disrupts his plans, and tests his easygoing attitude.
Barbary and Trace are worlds apart. Still, their hearts collide. Can they overcome their preconceived notions long enough to follow God’s plan?
Interesting. Is there anything else you’d like to tell us?
Yes, Gail thanks for highlighting my book. I wish you success in all your ventures. I also hope your readers always have a reason to smile and time to stop and enjoy the beauty that God bestows on us.
It's my pleasure to have you.
Look for Sparks of Love
on Alibris
and Amazon
Bio:
Mary L. Ball is a multi-published author and member of ACFW. She resides in the heart of North Carolina. When she isn't working on her latest story, she enjoys fishing, reading, and singing with her husband at church functions.
Readers can connect with her
on her web page,
Visit her singing ministry site here
Comments
shows true life problems, but also how with God's grace redemption can take
place. I'm eager to read her new books she's working on.