About the Book
Book: Springtime in Surrey
Authors: Faith Blum, Andrea Renee Cox, Bailey Gaines, Katja H. Labonté, Grace A. Johnson, Rachel Leitch, Erika Mathews, and Kellyn Roth
Genre: Christian Women’s Fiction, Historical and Contemporary
Release Date: July 25, 2023
Springtime in Surrey,
the first collection releasing with Wild Blue Wonder Press, is a
Christian anthology featuring eight lovely stories. With a mix of
historical and contemporary, romance and women’s fiction, a dash of
mystery here and there, real-life themes presented in a loving way, and a
vintage feel, this story is sure to charm lovers of Christian women’s
fiction.
Jesus, I Am Resting by Faith Blum
Elinor Chapman, an orphaned laundry woman, must fight to survive
after WWI breaks out. She prays her beau doesn’t die on a foreign
battlefield like her father did 14 years ago. She is forced to take on
nursing, but her passion for helping other orphans distracts her from
this job, leaving her little time for rest. Will she run herself into
the ground … or will she learn to rest in Jesus?
The Cottage on the Hill by Andrea Renee Cox
During every teatime at her cottage hideaway, Moira struggles to
discover hope amongst her lost ballerina dreams. Unsettled by elusive
goals of his own, sheep farmer Adrian observes his uncle’s neighbor
crying into her tea and wonders why… and what he can do to cheer her up.
While facing their regrets, can Moira and Adrian trust that God has a
good plan despite crushed dreams and far-off hopes?
If I Knew You Were Coming by Bailey Gaines
With her husband off to war and two evacuee children staying in her
home, Joan feels duty-bound to contribute to the war effort via her
participation in the Women’s Land Army. She is thrilled to learn that
her husband has leave. But when the London Blitz ruins her plans to see
him, Joan must decide what is most important in her life: her
contribution to the war effort or her calling as a mother?
Her Heart’s Home by Grace A. Johnson
Forced from her childhood home after her father was killed in action,
Meredith Tate is forced to seek employment at the Deepdene Hotel until
she discovers the next step. Which most certainly does not include the
brooding Captain Trevor Seaton, a guest who always manages to catch her
at her worst. Despite his gentle magnetism, Meredith is determined not
to fall for a military man—but God may have other plans.
The Tussie-Mussie by Katja H. Labonté
Caitrìona is determined to rescue her family from poverty by making a
brilliant match. She is on the verge of success when her brother is
arrested for a sensational crime. Banished to the country, she meets
Ewart, a fearful recluse with a younger sister in need of aid. Ewart and
Caitrìona grow together through shared goals—but as mysteries are
uncovered and characters tested, what truth will be revealed?
The Odd Duck Society by Rachel Leitch
Jessamy Aubertine is too much for her university classmates, too
little for her overstressed mum, and nothing in between. Then a
mysterious letter signed by Jane Austen brings her back to her family’s
fading tea shop and a pair of unlikely comrades. Will they find the
letter writer—and perhaps discover themselves along the way? Or will
their friendship fade with The Muses?
Fear Not Tomorrows by Erika Mathews
Hardworking Margaret Enfield is thrilled with her engagement to her
lifelong best friend Lester. When his brother’s sudden illness forces
Lester’s prolonged and indefinite absence, every tomorrow feels bleak to
Margaret as lonely drudgery overtakes the once-rosy springtime. As she
throws herself into her tasks, can she learn to trust her tomorrows with
Jesus—one day at a time?
Courage to Stay by Kellyn Roth
Rosalind finds herself engaged to Matthias after her former fiancé,
his brother, perishes in battle. Determined to forge a connection, she
embarks on a risky mission. When Matthias retreats into his own turmoil
on a hunting trip, Rosalind disguises herself as a man and follows him
to the forest, vowing to fight for their love. Will Matthias summon the
courage to stay, or will his fractured mind drive them apart forever?
Click here to get your copy!
About the Author
Wild Blue Wonder Press
was established in January 2016 by Kellyn Roth for the purpose of
independently publishing her historical women’s fiction series, The
Chronicles of Alice and Ivy. Based on a special location on her family’s
property and a childhood stumbling over phrases, Kellyn chose the name
to evoke feelings of wonder in a world full of dark valleys. After all,
where there is snow and ice, there will be chickadees, and in the midst
of the darkest woods, you can often find a cozy cabin. Wild Blue Wonder
Press is now working with other creatives to expand its outreach and
help other independent writers achieve their dreams in a professional
manner.
More from Kellyn
Hey everyone! I’m Kellyn Roth, owner of Wild Blue Wonder Press and one of the authors on the Springtime in Surrey collection.
I just wanted to come on here today and talk briefly about Surrey—and
specifically answer the question I’m sure many of you had in your minds
when you learned that the novella collection was set in this English
county: “Why Surrey?!”
As authors, we often find inspiration in the places we call home … but sometimes it’s more fun to find inspiration far afield!
The landscapes, the people, and the unique atmosphere of a location
can and should shape the stories we tell. Though none of our authors are
actually natives of Surrey, our stories are set there! So why?
Well, I’ll tell you.
Reason #1: There’s a Lot of History in Surrey
Surrey is a place steeped in history, with tales that date back
centuries. It has links to the Magna Carta and played a heavy role in
the English Civil War. A lot of historical figures came from Surrey or
spent significant amounts of time there.
Quite a few of our stories are set in history, and the ones that
aren’t bear some vintage link that ties them back to the “olden days.”
There’s such beauty in history, and as a historical author, I love
featuring stories that delve back into the past!
Reason #2: It’s Gorgeous There!
Surrey’s landscapes provide an idyllic backdrop for storytelling—our
Pinterest board will tell you that much! From the rolling hills of the
North Downs to the tranquil beauty of the “Surrey Hills Area of
Outstanding Natural Beauty” (what a mouthful!), this county offers an
abundance of scenic vistas that captivate both locals and visitors
alike.
We hoped to transport our readers to a place of natural wonder and
evoke a sense of serenity through the quaint settings. Some of our
stories take place in the countryside—and some in villages or towns. But
all of them are so atmospheric and fun!
Reason #3: All the Quaint Villages and Towns
One of the defining characteristics of Surrey is its charming
villages and towns, each with its own distinct character and charm. From
the cobblestone streets of Guildford to the historic market town of
Farnham, these locales are brimming with personality and provide a sense
of community that is often lost in larger cities.
By setting some of our stories in these close-knit communities, we
hope to capture the essence of Surrey’s rural charm and the warmth of
its residents. I mean, who doesn’t love a village? (I’m a fan!)
Reason #4: It’s Close to London
While Surrey is known for its rural beauty, its proximity to London
makes everything a little easier for us authors. The county acts as a
gateway to the capital, allowing for the infusion of city life and
providing opportunities for our characters to embark on exciting
adventures beyond the county’s borders … or to have them be “running
away” from something, as is the case in some stories.
Though alliteration did play a role, as you may have guessed,
Surrey’s draws spoke for themselves—and I’m so glad we chose this
dynamic county!
Join us as we embark on this literary exploration of Surrey, England!
Blog Stops
Alena Mentink, April 5
Devoted To Hope, April 5
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 6
Texas Book-aholic, April 7
Lighthouse Academy Blog, April 8 (Guest Review from Marilyn Ridgway)
She Lives To Read, April 9
Locks, Hooks and Books, April 10
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 11
Pause for Tales, April 11
Cover Lover Book Review, April 12
Batya’s Bits, April 13
Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, April 14 (Author Interview)
Mary Hake, April 14
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 15
For Him and My Family, April 16
Blossoms and Blessings, April 17
Holly’s Book Corner , April 18
Jeanette’s Thoughts, April 18
Giveaway
To celebrate her tour, Kellyn is giving
away the grand prize package of a $100 Amazon gift card and a paperback
copy of Springtime in Surrey!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.
https://promosimple.com/ps/2ac77/springtime-in-surrey-celebration-tour-giveaway