About the Book

Book: Glitter and the Grouch (Romance in Valiant Book Three. It can be read as a standalone.) Author: Mary Pat Johns Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance Release date: September 3, 2024

Silas and Nat don’t get along. Neither can they leave each other alone. When a prank goes terribly wrong at their workplace, they face an impossible choice. Either they compete in a canoe race to prove they can work together or forfeit their futures at Peeps. Quitting isn’t the norm for either of them. Good thing, because their boss isn’t backing down an inch. He assures them they can accomplish anything they set their minds to, even if it’s 3 days and 260 miles of river. There’s only one catch—they’ll have to be in the same boat. Will they reach deep inside to find out what they’re made of? Or will they succumb to the physical rigors of the event and the machinations of Nat’s controlling ex?

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About the Author

Mary Pat Johns’ writing career began once she retired from years of teaching speech and writing. She’s written devotions for an online publication and had short stories published by Chicken Soup for the Soul. She currently writes a weekly faith column for the local newspaper. Countin’ On Jesse, her first novel debuted in 2023, and book 2 of the Valiant series, Lovin’ On Red, released in release in 2024. God put it in her heart to tell stories of brave veterans and their reintegration into civilian life after suffering the traumas of war. She lives in South Texas with her husband and their two dapple dachshunds. Her grown children and five grandchildren are useful sorts who keep her grounded with her reading/writing obsession. You can find her at the gym, at her computer, or reading a good book.

More from Mary

I wrote Glitter and the Grouch for two reasons. The first reason was peace of mind. LOL. Two minor characters from Books 1 & 2 of the Valiant series INSISTED on having their own story. Rather, Nat insisted and Silas grudgingly followed. He hated the idea at first, but all’s well that ends well. The second reason is I absolutely LOVE the Texas Water Safari and follow it every year. When I talked to a friend who competes, he wasn’t sure how I would write a book about it. When I explained it would be a story about two people who fall in love during the race, he grinned from ear to ear and said that scenario had happened a few times.

Interview with the Author

Do you read books in this genre? If so, who do you like to read?

I tend to read a wide variety of genres, but I do read contemporary romance and particularly enjoy Courtney Walsh and Becky Wade.

If a reader were to ask you what author you are like, what would you answer? Oh, that’s a hard question. I’m not sure what author I write like now, but I would love to write like Laurel Blount or Lynn Blackburn.

What helps you to write? Do you eat snacks, listen to music?

I drink hot tea and love the quiet. If my husband’s in his woodworking shop right outside my window, that’s even better.

If you could travel back in time, what time period would you go to?

Hmm. I love to read about the American Revolution and Regency England, but I’m not sure I’d want to live in any time other than contemporary.

What is your favorite book and why?

One of my favorite love stories is Jane Eyre. I simply adore Jane and Rochester’s story. He’s an awful mess, and she insists on thinking for herself in a society that didn’t encourage it, her being a woman.

What is your favorite hymn and why?

I cherish “Come Thou Fount of Many Blessings.” The lyrics perfectly capture our sinful state, and the song always makes me cry.

What is one thing readers would be surprised to learn about you?

I was a twirler in high school and played the bassoon in band. The bassoon is an odd woodwind instrument that’s hard to master. Guess that explains a lot, since I gravitate toward challenges.

What inspired you to write this book?

I LOVE the Texas Water Safari. It’s earned the moniker of “the toughest boat race in the world.” I wanted to pay tribute to the participants who pit themselves against the physical elements and human nature. Three days in a canoe with no sleep? No, I’ve never done it, but I loved writing about it.

Share with me a few of your favorite things.

Oh, my goodness! I love to read and write. Crossword puzzles are fun, and I like to work in my flowerbeds when it’s not too hot. And, of course, spending time with family is a favorite.

What is one question you would like readers to ask you?

What would be your answer? I like readers to ask why I write. It’s been a lifelong dream, but life is busy. Finally, though, nothing else satisfied until I seriously pursued it. I’m so glad I did! It’s my sweet spot.