New Year's Blog Hop Continues---and guess how I spent New Year's Eve? PLUS another freebie!

WOW. Thanks to all of you who have left comments on the blog for your FREE copy of my book. It's also GREAT to know there are others who enjoy reading Max Lucado as much as I do.

And---anyone want to guess how I spent New Year's Eve? Did I :

a) spend a low-key night hanging with friends
b) go to one of the celebrations in Raleigh (closest major city to me)
c) watch re-runs of Law and Order: Criminal Intent
d) clean my closet

I know. Some of these are absolutely yawn-worthy. I think it's safe to say some of my New Year's are more social than others. I'm one of those people who enjoy being with others, but then also enjoy some alone time.

The answer is : C. But in my defense, Vincent D'Onofrio is the most talented, underrated character actor alive today. I'm very fascinated by murder mysteries. I may even attempt to write one---a "cozy"---nothing overtly graphic....
D'Onofrio's character (which, I think we all agree could probably not exist in "real life") is based on Sherlock Holmes. Also, the show follows the crime heavily from the criminal's perspective. As a writer, I find this fascinating because the motive is never what you'd really expect....

Anyway, I now have ANOTHER book being offered for free as a part of an Amazon promo.
It is a collection of my short stories (written as a part of my creative writing master's thesis).
The link is here--the book is "Welcome to Shangri-La, North Carolina."

And now, a quick recap of how to get your FREE book, prizes, etc.


Here's the 4-1-1 and tips on how you can WIN free stuff.
First, everyone who leaves a comment on this blog will get a coupon code for a FREE electronic copy of my latest novel, "Ten Thousand New Year's Eves" (what better for the new year?) You can read a bit more about it--including a sample chapter--- here.

Second, all of those who leave a comment will be entered into a drawing to win a FREE hardcover copy of "Traveling Light" by Max Lucado OR "Love" by Toni Morrison. (winner's choice). I am giving the winner a choice because, in the interest of full disclosure, "Traveling Light" is a religious book. I love Max Lucado (particularly his "Applause of Heaven") and while I make no apologies for my beliefs, I do NOT want anyone to think they were being "back-door evangelized," so if you'd prefer (or if you've already read the Lucado book) you can have a hardcover copy of "Love" by Toni Morrison. I think both authors write with an intense sense of imagery and emotion---so please feel free to pick the one you wish. (Though please be aware that the Morrison book is PG-13).

Not trying to offend anyone, just keeping it real.


So in short:
1. Leave a comment to get a FREE e-copy of "Ten Thousand New Year's Eves"
2. When you leave a comment, please leave your e-mail addy OR, if you prefer to send it privately, you can send it to me at dawndeannawilson@gmail.com
3. All those who comment will be placed in a drawing to win a hardcover book: either "Traveling Light" by Max Lucado OR "Love" by Toni Morrison (winner's choice).
4. I will post a video of me drawing the name of the winner from a hat (I know it's hokey, but I love the theatrical) .
5. I will contact that winner via e-mail to get his/her snail mail addy and send the book of his/her choice.

Also, I do NOT send your e-mails, addresses, etc. to some kind of spam list, because 1) that is just not cool 2) I wouldn't know how to do that anyway and 3) that is totally rude.

So...read the sample chapter of my "Ten Thousand New Year's Eves" right here if you want to see if it's your cup of tea (I've had a blast writing it and I really do think you'll enjoy it). Hang around a bit. I'll talk about some of my favorite characters I created for the book, and I'll talk to you about HOW I came up with the characters.  So have some coffee. Have fun. Chill out. Follow my blog because I'm insecure and need validation...
But last, and CERTAINLY not least, PLEASE visit the other blogs on this list to get other chances to win cool free stuff.
And on behalf of writers everywhere---thank you. Writing can be a solitary profession, and it's great to connect with readers.