About the Book

Book: Meet Me on the Porch

Author: Erin Stevenson

Genre: Christian fiction

Release date: May 13, 2022

Brynne Lockwood has come home to Brattleboro, Vermont after a humiliating job loss. She’s weary and broken, and still hasn’t truly forgiven herself for a former unhealthy relationship with long-lasting consequences. She doesn’t believe that she deserves anything good and can’t imagine that God could ever use her.

After recovering from a shattering loss, Pastor Adam Johnston is on his way to a new assignment. A mix-up takes him and his baby daughter to beautiful southern Vermont. If he stays, he’ll face opposition, but God has prepared his heart for ministry, and he’s committed to serving there.

Adam and Brynne connect quickly and unexpectedly, but circumstances demand that they be cautious.

Now, you are invited to join Adam and Brynne on the porch at her grandparents’ home—a special place where you’ll experience their joy as Adam and Brynne build a friendship rooted in Biblical principles, find healing for their wounds, and discover God’s plan for their lives.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Erin has been writing fiction since 2014 and is published independently and with Pelican Book Group and Winged Publications. She is a 2021 American Christian Fiction Writers Carol Award Finalist.

Erin was raised in Illinois and has lived in many places in the U.S., including on both coasts, but is a Midwest girl at heart. She spent many years as an educator from pre-school through college levels, and currently works in communications for a global corporation.

When she’s not writing, Erin loves spending time with her children and grandchildren, and playing in the garden (which equates to mostly pulling weeds) at her central Iowa home. Her secret indulgence is plain M&Ms.

More from Erin

This book is part of Pelican Book Group’s Destination Romance collection, one set in each of the 50 US states. There were three random objects required to be worked into the plot: lace, shampoo, and a shovel. The twist was that they had to be presented in an interesting way—not, for instance, “Brynne was disappointed to discover that her favorite shampoo was out of stock.”

Here’s an excerpt of how I incorporated shampoo into this story:

Adam led her to the swing. After she sat, he set the mug on the table, then picked up a bulky case and placed it on top.

“What’s that?”

Adam smiled. “This is my sample case. Allow me to show you my display of shampoos.”

“Shampoos?”

“Yes. I have orange blossom, lemon verbena, strawberry vanilla.” He lifted out each bottle and lined them up. At least six more followed, each a different scent. “And this one is—um, oh, sorry, that’s for lice.” He grimaced.

Brynne nearly spewed her drink. “Adam Johnston, what are you doing?”

“I’m a shampoo salesman.” He lifted a shoulder. “Last night you said you would date me if I was a pilot or a shampoo salesman.” He sighed. “I’m terrified of flying.”

She had to hold her laughter as she put her hand over her heart. “You are beyond cute. Where did you get all this stuff?” A giggle escaped.

He let out a sigh. “It wasn’t easy, believe me,” he muttered.

Interview with Erin

• How do you overcome writer’s block? Do you have any advice for others in finding their process to overcome it?

I have two strategies that have worked well for me: 1) step away from it for a day or two…or more; 2) hop over the wall—that is, just skip whatever is blocking you and move on to the next scene or chapter. Move way ahead if you need to. Oftentimes it will provide inspiration to be able to go back and fill things in.

• Do you read the genre you write? Why or why not?

Absolutely. It sharpens my writing and keeps me informed on the trends of the genre.

• How did you come up with the title for your book?

I’m trying to remember if I came up with it before or after I wrote the line in the book when it was first uttered. I knew I wanted a place for my characters’ relationship (and ultimately romance) to grow and flourish, and it sort of just happened.

• What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?

To find a supportive critique group, or at least a critique partner. Writing can be a lonely endeavor. Giving and receiving feedback will sharpen your skills and provide encouragement when the inevitable doubts creep in—when you get a rejection letter, or don’t place in a contest, or have writer’s block.

• Is your writing space pristine or organized chaos?

I don’t have a designated writing space. It’s wherever my laptop and I happen to be when inspiration strikes, indoors or outdoors.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, August 2

Texas Book-aholic, August 3

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 4

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, August 5 (Author Interview)

Lily’s Book Reviews, August 5

Inklings and notions, August 6

deb’s Book Review, August 7

Guild Master, August 8 (Author Interview)

Locks, Hooks and Books, August 9

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, August 10

For Him and My Family, August 11

Artistic Nobody, August 12 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 13

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, August 14

Simple Harvest Reads, August 15 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, August 15

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Erin is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card & copy of the book!!

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/20709/meet-me-on-the-porch-celebration-tour-giveaway