You can read a sneak peak of the first chapter of Ring Around the Rosie on the author's blog: http://ldswritermom.blogspot.com.
About the Author:
Friday, February 28, 2014
Cover Reveal--Ring Around the Rosie by Julie Coulter Bellon
You can read a sneak peak of the first chapter of Ring Around the Rosie on the author's blog: http://ldswritermom.blogspot.com.
About the Author:
Review: Legend by Marie Lu
Legend (Book 1) by Marie Lu
Published: 2011
Length: 320 pages
Description: What was once the western United States is now home to the Republic, a nation perpetually at war with its neighbors. Born into an elite family in one of the Republic's wealthiest districts, fifteen-year-old June is a prodigy being groomed for success in the Republic's highest military circles. Born into the slums, fifteen-year-old Day is the country's most wanted criminal. But his motives may not be as malicious as they seem.
From very different worlds, June and Day have no reason to cross paths - until the day June's brother, Metias, is murdered and Day becomes the prime suspect. Caught in the ultimate game of cat and mouse, Day is in a race for his family's survival, while June seeks to avenge Metias's death. But in a shocking turn of events, the two uncover the truth of what has really brought them together, and the sinister lengths their country will go to keep its secrets.
Full of nonstop action, suspense, and romance, this novel is sure to move readers as much as it thrills.
My Review: 4.5 Stars
I really enjoyed the way our current society seemed like a made-up story and a fable from the past. Sometimes I look at the world around me and think there is so much that is bad and evil, yet this society was even more so. It was run differently, yet there were a few things that didn't change much from today (some locations even had the same names).
I loved June and Day! They were so creative and brave, talented and resourceful. I always wonder if I was in the same situation, would I run and hide or take action to change things? I think I would be scared to death to go against the flow. Day kind of reminded me of a futuristic Robin Hood.
At the back of the book, the author told how she had watched Les Mis and wondered what a relationship between a criminal and a detective would be like and that's how this story was born. Her take on it was quite original and I enjoyed watching the story unfold and the seemingly unbelievable become a reality. I loved how smart these two were. My only complaint: they did NOT seem like they were 15--they seemed older.
One of the things I enjoyed the most were the emotions I felt while reading it. There were times when I was tense and on edge, wondering how things would end up and there were other times when my heart was broken by pain, grief, and suffering, interspersed with moments of happiness.
I'm so glad I have the next two books on hand so that I can keep going and find out what happens next!
Content: violence (people die, get stabbed, are beaten, etc), but not overly graphic; some language; clean romance (kissing).
Cover Reveal--Princess of the Light by N.N. Light
Princess of the Light by N.N. Light
Release Date: August 26, 2014
Blurb:
Miriam Miller
likes the simple things in life: a good book, close friends, and a healthy
relationship with God. But, destiny comes calling, and her neat, little life
turns upside down.
Ethanial, an
angel of God, has been sent to reveal Miriam's true calling -– she is the
Princess of the Light, the woman chosen by God Himself to vanquish the demons
intent on infusing the world with evil. And her first assignment: restore the
soul of a homeless man known only as The Walking Man.
Enter Joe
Deacons, a man intent on stealing her heart. But as Miriam embarks on her
journey to save the Walking Man and fulfill her calling, it becomes clear that
Joe isn’t what he appears to be. Miriam must decide: Is she willing to risk her
soul to save those she loves?
Author Bio:
N.N.
Light was born in Minnesota, lived in Southern California only to move to
chilly Ontario, Canada to marry her beloved husband, Mr. N. She is blissfully
happy and loves all things chocolate, books, music, movies, art, sports and
baking.
Website: princessofthelight.com
Blog: Princessofthelight.wordpress.com
Links:
Thursday, February 27, 2014
Cover Reveal: Prejudice Meets Pride by Rachael Renee Anderson
I LOVE Rachael Renee Anderson's books and I'm really looking forward to this one! Be sure to add it to your to-read list.
Prejudice Meets Pride by Rachael Anderson
After years of pinching pennies and struggling to get through art school, Emma Makie’s hard work finally pays off in the form of a dream job offer. But when tragedy strikes, she has no choice but to turn down the job and make a cross-country move to Colorado Springs to take temporary custody of her two nieces. She has no money, no job prospects, and no idea how to be a mother to two little girls, but she isn’t about to let that stop her. Nor is she about to accept the help or of her handsome new neighbor, who seems to think she’s incapable of doing anything on her own.
Fun, heartwarming, and romantic, Prejudice Meets Pride is the story of a guy who thinks he has it all figured out and a girl who isn’t afraid to show him that he doesn’t. It’s about learning what it means to trust, figuring out how to give and to take, and realizing that not everyone gets to pick the person they fall in love with. Sometimes, love picks them.
Author Rachael Anderson
USA Today bestselling author Rachael Anderson is the mother of four and is pretty good at breaking up fights, or at least sending guilty parties to their rooms. She can’t sing, doesn’t dance, and despises tragedies. But she recently figured out how yeast works and can now make homemade bread, which she is really good at eating.
Prejudice Meets Pride by Rachael Anderson
After years of pinching pennies and struggling to get through art school, Emma Makie’s hard work finally pays off in the form of a dream job offer. But when tragedy strikes, she has no choice but to turn down the job and make a cross-country move to Colorado Springs to take temporary custody of her two nieces. She has no money, no job prospects, and no idea how to be a mother to two little girls, but she isn’t about to let that stop her. Nor is she about to accept the help or of her handsome new neighbor, who seems to think she’s incapable of doing anything on her own.
Fun, heartwarming, and romantic, Prejudice Meets Pride is the story of a guy who thinks he has it all figured out and a girl who isn’t afraid to show him that he doesn’t. It’s about learning what it means to trust, figuring out how to give and to take, and realizing that not everyone gets to pick the person they fall in love with. Sometimes, love picks them.
Author Rachael AndersonUSA Today bestselling author Rachael Anderson is the mother of four and is pretty good at breaking up fights, or at least sending guilty parties to their rooms. She can’t sing, doesn’t dance, and despises tragedies. But she recently figured out how yeast works and can now make homemade bread, which she is really good at eating.
$25 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Giveaway
Open Internationally
Ends 3/31/14
Open only to those who can legally enter,
receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry
will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary.
You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The
winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as
emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be
chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter,
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of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway
was organized by Inspired Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.
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From Gods by Mary Ting $50 Book Blast Giveaway
From Gods by Mary Ting
Did you just see a flash of lightning across the sky on a clear sunny day? Don't blame Mother Nature.
Skylar Rome should have been having the best summer ever, before heading off to college. Suddenly her whole life changes while visiting her cousin, and meeting the Grand brothers; Mason, in particular. Though she's sure he is someone she should stay away from, the attraction was undeniable.
Strange things begin to happen, throwing
Skylar's life into turmoil. Implausibly, she gets caught up in a world where the descendants of ancient gods have super powers, and evil beings are after her. Not only are her discoveries difficult to accept, but now she is running
out of time and running for her life, while trying to unravel the mystery of what they want from her. Forced into a battle set into motion long before she was born, will Skylar find the answers she seeks, or will she die trying?
Praise for From Gods “A fast paced adventure full of mystery, action, magic and romance! Readers won’t be able to put this book down!” ~InD’tale Magazine “From Gods takes mythology to a whole new level of imagination with its incredible plot and amazing characters. It’s full of hotness that you never want to end!” ~Michele, Insane About Books “From Gods by the AMAZING AUTHOR Mary Ting is OMGods good!! If you even LIKE Greek Mythology, set aside some time because you will DEVOUR Mary Ting's Demi Gods and Vultures!!!” ~Mindy, Books Complete Me “This book is “electric” as it blends paranormal romance, mythology (which I love), action and suspense together for an amazing read. Mary Ting, you’ve done it again! This book exceeded my expectations and I was literally blown away as if I were struck by lightning!” ~Vanessa, Fairiechick’s Fantasy Book Reader
Author Mary Ting
Bestselling/award-winning author Mary Ting resides in Southern California with her husband and two children. She enjoys oil painting and making jewelry. Writing her first novel, Crossroads Saga, happened by chance. It was a way to grieve the death of her beloved grandmother, and inspired by a dream she once had as a young girl. When she started reading new adult novels, she fell in love with the genre. It was the reason she had to write one-Something Great. Why the pen name, M Clarke? She tours with Magic Johnson Foundation to promote literacy and her children's chapter book-No Bullies Allowed.
BookBlast Giveaway $50 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Ends 3/23/14 Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader, Not A Writer and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.
Wednesday, February 26, 2014
Review: Living in the Eleventh Hour by Robert L. Millet
Author: Robert L. Millet
Page Count: 146
Genre: Gospel Teachings
Source: I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
My Rating: ****--4 Stars
Summary: “The Second Coming is not something that we need fear or be unduly alarmed about,” says author Robert Millet. “It can and should be a glorious and long-awaited day . . . particularly for those who have watched for his coming and sought to stand in holy places.”
Living in the Eleventh Hour clearly teaches us what the scriptures as well as Latter-day prophets tell us about the future. It will not only help Latter-day Saints read the signs of the times concerning the last days but also remind us of our personal responsibilities as we prepare ourselves and the world for the much-anticipated return of Christ. Filled with encouraging quotes from Church leaders, insightful scriptures, and personal stories from the author, this timely book will inspire readers to live today as if He were coming tomorrow.
My Review: A lot of these types of books create a panicky feeling inside of me. I feel like the end is so scary, even if it's something to look forward to. I loved the way this book was written in a way that made me feel at peace with things. This truly is a time to anticipate, rather than dread. I loved what the author said in the preface--"My intention is not to frighten but to fortify; not to startle but to solidify; not to be sensational but to be sound." He did an excellent job of doing just what he claimed he'd do.
I enjoyed the way scripture and General Authority quotes were woven into the commentary, as well as modern thoughts and applications to our own lives today. I was able to find relations between the person stories given and my own life and I was filled with hope as I read this book. There was a lot of good information in here, especially in the Glossary. My mind was opened to a few new ideas that I hadn't considered before and I'm enjoying pondering on those.
I highly recommend this book for those looking for an uplifting and encouraging source about the Last Days.
About the Author:
Robert L. Millet, an Abraham O. Smoot Professor and former dean of Religious Education at Brigham Young University, is a professor of ancient scripture and a lifelong scholar of the last days. After receiving bachelor’s and master’s degrees from BYU in psychology, he earned a PhD from Florida State University in religious studies. He has served in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as a seminary teacher, bishop, stake president, and member of the Materials Evaluation Committee. He and his wife, Shauna, are the parents of six children.
Tuesday, February 25, 2014
Review: The Cinderella Debutante by Elizabeth Hanbury
Published: 2012
Length: 155 pages
My Rating: ***--3 Stars
Description: Lucy Sinclair’s London Season was cut short by tragedy. Now, five years later, she is returning but only in the shadow of her lovely step-sister. Belinda is determined to catch a titled husband and Alex, Lord Devlyn fits the bill perfectly.
Lucy finds Alex devastatingly attractive yet knows he will be dazzled by Belinda’s ravishing beauty. Her one chance of love seems lost forever until an unlikely fairy godmother makes Lucy the belle of the ball...
My Review: With a title like this, I expected to see more of a Cinderella comparison to the story, but the beginning was about all I could compare it to--a step mother, a vain step-sister, and a dead father.
Taking place in a time when coming-out balls and the ton are all the rage, I was swept away into the Regency time period. I enjoyed seeing Lucy and Lord Devlyn interact and thought their attraction was sweet. However, I didn't care for the step mother or Belinda, the step-sister, at all. I guess that's how we're supposed to feel about the characters in Cinderella. Belinda's beauty and youth topped that of Lucy's and she was very shallow and vain. The mother was determined to win the best match, no matter the cost--even letting her daughter attend a controversial event. I thought it was a fun escape and sweet romance.
I loved Lord Devlyn's sister--she was quite the condescending character and of course, I loved the ending!
Content: a handful of language; some minimal violence; kissing and the consummation of a marriage without detail.
About the Author:
Elizabeth Hanbury writes historical romance with swoonworthy heroes, sparkling heroines and a dash of wit and humour. She lives in a village in the heart of England and writes whenever she can sneak away to her desk. Elizabeth is a member of the Romantic Novelists' Association and the Historical Novel Society.
She writes for people like her, who just need a little escape from the stresses of daily life.
Visit her web-site at www.elizabethhanbury.com for more information.
Monday, February 24, 2014
Review: The Grand Sophy by Georgette Heyer
Published: Originally in 1950 (my edition was 2004)
Length: 328 pages
When Lady Ombersley agrees to take in her young niece, no one expects Sophy, who sweeps in and immediately takes the ton by storm. Beautiful, gay, impulsive, shockingly direct, Sophy swept into elegant London society and scattered conventions and traditions before her like wisps in a windstorm. But Sophy discovers that her aunt's family is in desperate need of her talent for setting everything right: her uncle is of no use at all, the ruthlessly handsome cousin Charles has tyrannical tendencies that are being aggravated by his grim fiancee; lovely cousin Cecelia was smitten with an utterly unsuitable suitor, a poet; cousin Herbert was in dire financial straits; and the younger children are in desperate need of some fun and freedom, and she's arrived just in time to save them all.
She became the mainstay of her hilariously bedeviled family, as a horsewoman, social leader and above all, as an ingenious match-maker. Using her signature unorthodox methods, Sophy set out to solve all of their problems. By the time she's done, Sophy has commandeered Charles's horses, his household, and finally, his heart. Could it be that the Grand Sophy had finally met her match...?
My Review: ****--4 Stars
The Regency period is fascinating to me. All of the balls and etiquette really attract my interest. In this story, Sir Horace visits his sister and tells her that he is sending his daughter to stay with her for a time. No one expects Sophy. She is bright, witty, daring, and completely goes against the grain. She brings the younger children in the family a pet monkey. Really...who does that? She buys herself a phaeton and races it like no other. She doesn't act prim, proper, and shy, like most of the other girls her age. There's no one she irritates more than her cousin, the one in control of the finances and properties--Charles. And annoy him she does!
I enjoy a character such as Sophy. She really could care less what people think of her. She does what she has to do to help those around her, even if she finds herself in unusual and seemingly dangerous situations. One of those situations was my favorite--I loved it when she went to visit the money lender. The way she handled him had me laughing out loud--especially when $$$ finds out. She's a busybody, trying to manage and arrange the lives of all those around her, yet she does it in an almost endearing way. She's a master of reverse psychology and really knows how people work.
Charles is so stuffy and uptight, yet we get a glimpse of why he is the way he is and it all makes sense. Still, I felt that sometimes Sophy acted the way she did just to get a reaction out of him. She seemed to love to catch him with his own words and turn them against him.
All in all, a perfectly delightful book that really shows the Regency period at its finest.
Content: some mild language, no intimate scenes, no real violence. Clean.
Saturday, February 22, 2014
Wildwood Creek by Lisa Wingate GRAND FINALE
The Grand Finale for Wildwood Creek by Lisa Wingate...
To post this Grand Finale and add your Social Media to the Rafflecopter, email Tressa at wishfulendings(at)outlook.com with "Wildwood Grand Finale" in the subject line!
There is a mystery in Wildwood Creek's history, a mystery that affects Allie's present...
Wildwood Creekby Lisa Wingate
Christian Romance
Paperback, 384 pages
February 4th 2014 by Bethany House Publishers
Allie Kirkland has never been one to take wild risks. But when she’s offered a costuming assistant’s job on a docudrama in the hills near Moses Lake, she jumps at the chance. She’s always dreamed of following in her director-father’s footsteps, and the reenactment of the legendary frontier settlement of Wildwood is a first step. The family expectations will have to wait.
But in 1861, the real Wildwood held dangerous realities. Town founder Harland Delevan held helpless residents, including young Irish schoolteacher Bonnie Rose, in an iron grip. Mysterious disappearances led to myths and legends still retold in the folk songs of Chinquapin Peaks. Eventually, the entire site was found abandoned.
When strange connections surface between Allie and the teacher who disappeared over a century ago, everyone in Wildwood, including Allie’s handsome neighbor on the film set, Blake Fulton, seems to be hiding secrets, and Allie doesn’t know who she can trust. If she can’t find the answers in time, history may repeat itself . . . with the most unthinkable results.
Lisa, the Writer
Part IV of IV:
What sacrifices have you had to make to be a writer?
Writing two novels per year for two different publishers these last several years has been very time-consuming, especially while raising a family, driving carpools, and shuttling forgotten sports equipment to stadiums all over a three-county area. I'm still a mom, and I don't want to miss anything, which often means that I'm up late or up early to finish my writing. I think for me, the sacrifice has probably come in terms of giving up time for hobbies and other things I like to do outside of the writing business.
What keeps me going is the pure love of story and at times the letters from readers. There is nothing more powerful than knowing that your words on a page affected a life, helped to inspire growth, or just walked through the dark night of the soul with someone. A few years ago, a reader wrote to tell me she’d couldn’t sleep on as the first anniversary of her young granddaughter’s death approached, so she picked up one of my stories. The book took her away from that pain for a while. It made her laugh, and that was what she needed. There’s an incredible sense of human connection in that. A story can literally transport the mind, and body, and soul to another place. It never fails that when I’m having a “down” day, a note will come in from a reader and remind me that the human side of story is what matters most.
What advice would you give other writers?
It's gauche to talk about money, but don't do it for the money. Everybody seems to think that becoming a full-time writer is the measure of success, but I would urge writers coming along to really take their time about making the decision to give up another career and write full time. Being financially dependent on writing as your livelihood adds a new level of stress. I've seen the way too many young writers make that jump too quickly, and that always seems to be the question at conferences, “Are you a full-time writer?” I don’t think you’re any more legitimate because you write full time or don't. In truth, it’s more important to find out how to preserve the magic and enthusiasm that kept you sitting down at the computer when no one was paying you to write, and you weren’t sure anyone ever would.
Lisa, the Writer
Part IV of IV:
What sacrifices have you had to make to be a writer?
Writing two novels per year for two different publishers these last several years has been very time-consuming, especially while raising a family, driving carpools, and shuttling forgotten sports equipment to stadiums all over a three-county area. I'm still a mom, and I don't want to miss anything, which often means that I'm up late or up early to finish my writing. I think for me, the sacrifice has probably come in terms of giving up time for hobbies and other things I like to do outside of the writing business.
What keeps me going is the pure love of story and at times the letters from readers. There is nothing more powerful than knowing that your words on a page affected a life, helped to inspire growth, or just walked through the dark night of the soul with someone. A few years ago, a reader wrote to tell me she’d couldn’t sleep on as the first anniversary of her young granddaughter’s death approached, so she picked up one of my stories. The book took her away from that pain for a while. It made her laugh, and that was what she needed. There’s an incredible sense of human connection in that. A story can literally transport the mind, and body, and soul to another place. It never fails that when I’m having a “down” day, a note will come in from a reader and remind me that the human side of story is what matters most.
What advice would you give other writers?
It's gauche to talk about money, but don't do it for the money. Everybody seems to think that becoming a full-time writer is the measure of success, but I would urge writers coming along to really take their time about making the decision to give up another career and write full time. Being financially dependent on writing as your livelihood adds a new level of stress. I've seen the way too many young writers make that jump too quickly, and that always seems to be the question at conferences, “Are you a full-time writer?” I don’t think you’re any more legitimate because you write full time or don't. In truth, it’s more important to find out how to preserve the magic and enthusiasm that kept you sitting down at the computer when no one was paying you to write, and you weren’t sure anyone ever would.
Did you miss the other three parts about Lisa, the other guest posts, or reviews?
Catch them now!
"I quite enjoyed this book, the characters, the plot, the mystery, everything really."
"Well, to begin with, that our journeys, struggles, and challenges are never without purpose."
I imagine the words as he’s lookin’ at me, hear the echo as he spies Maggie outside the door. It troubles me not so much for myself, but for my sister. . . .
"It’s impossible not to wonder, from the safer vantage point of a modern life, if I could have endured what those pioneer women endured. If I were in the shoes of my ancestors, would I have the metal to survive?"
The man trails the steeple along his bottom lip. “Yes,” he says quite slowly, thinking the words in the speakin’. “Yes, you will do nicely, I believe.”
"I love a good mystery and this book delivered!"
"There is also, undoubtedly, a bit of my own hidden dream in Allie’s opportunity to join the historical reenactment — to go back in time."
I felt something . . . happening, but I didn’t know what.
"The story is a combination of folk legend, historical fact, and wild flight of fancy. I like to think of it as part historical, part contemporary, part romance, part adventure, and part drama."
"It was mysterious, and interesting, and exciting to read."
“One final thing,” she added. “Are you familiar with the name Bonnie Rose?”
The interview had taken another hairpin turn. “No, not that I know of . . .”
"Like I said, the ending was my favorite part. The mystery climaxed, the action picked up, the romance finally entered and I got a Happily Ever After."
"There were two special challenges in writing Wildwood Creek. The first was definitely the research...
The second challenge in writing Wildwood Creek involved the actual threading together of Allie and Bonnie's stories."
2/20: The Wonderings of One Person - Interview
"I think we all have mysteries that linger in our family histories or in our hometowns. Those tales are told at family gatherings, in the corners of local cafés, and around cook fires at Scout campouts. It’s impossible not to wonder, when hearing the retellings of things that have been passed down by word-of-mouth for generations, how much is true?"
"Wildwood Creek is the sort of book that drew me in from the first page, and I had to keep on reading to find out what was going to happen."
"If you are a fan of romance, historical fiction, and/or cozy mysteries, this story is for you. The author has created a completely scintillating story written in exquisite style."
"The way the characters and storyline were woven together was brilliant!"
"I try to remind myself of the things that really matter and to stay focused on what will be significant in a year, five years, ten years, and so on."
Lisa Wingate is a journalist, inspirational speaker, reviewer for the New York Journal of Books, and the author of over twenty novels. Her novels combine elements of history, romance, mystery, and women's fiction with nuggets of Southern culture, from the sublime to the humorous. She is a seven-time American Christian Fiction Writers Carol award nominee, a Christy Award nominee, an Oklahoma Book Award finalist, a Christianity Today Book Award nominee, an Inspy Award nominee, and a two-time Carol Award winner. Her works have been selected for Booklist’s Top Ten List in 2012 and in 2013. Recently, the group Americans for More Civility, a kindness watchdog organization, selected Lisa along with Bill Ford, Camille Cosby, and six others, as recipients of the National Civies Award, which celebrates public figures who work to promote greater kindness and civility in American life.
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Friday, February 21, 2014
FREE on Friday: Mr. Wrong by Alivia Anderson
Mr. Wrong by Alivia Anderson is FREE on Amazon
today!Published: September 2013
Length: 210 pages
Blurb:
Sometimes the only choice you have--is Mr.Wrong.
All Sara Fairbanks wants is to marry her missionary.
All Beau Hennings wants is to start a new life.
When she and Beau—accidentally—kiss, three days before her missionary comes home, Sara is more confused than ever.
Good thing Sara's BFF comes up with a plan to date Beau...and the missionary...at the same time.
Too bad the plan falls apart when her missionary tells her he’s transferring schools and Sara sees Beau out with another woman.
When the truth about the past surfaces, Sara has to make a choice; trust in the Lord or face Mr. Wrong.
All Sara Fairbanks wants is to marry her missionary.
All Beau Hennings wants is to start a new life.
When she and Beau—accidentally—kiss, three days before her missionary comes home, Sara is more confused than ever.
Good thing Sara's BFF comes up with a plan to date Beau...and the missionary...at the same time.
Too bad the plan falls apart when her missionary tells her he’s transferring schools and Sara sees Beau out with another woman.
When the truth about the past surfaces, Sara has to make a choice; trust in the Lord or face Mr. Wrong.
Wildwood Creek by Lisa Wingate--Blog Tour/Giveaway and Review
There is a mystery in Wildwood Creek's history, a mystery that affects Allie's present...
Wildwood Creekby Lisa Wingate
Christian Romance
Paperback, 384 pages
February 4th 2014 by Bethany House Publishers
Allie Kirkland has never been one to take wild risks. But when she's offered a costuming assistant's job on a docudrama in the hills near Moses Lake, she jumps at the chance. She's always dreamed of following in her director-father's footsteps, and the reenactment of the legendary frontier settlement of Wildwood is a first step. The family expectations will have to wait.
But in 1861, the real Wildwood held dangerous realities. Town founder Harland Delevan held helpless residents, including young Irish schoolteacher Bonnie Rose, in an iron grip. Mysterious disappearances led to myths and legends still retold in the folk songs of Chinquapin Peaks. Eventually, the entire site was found abandoned.
When strange connections surface between Allie and the teacher who disappeared over a century ago, everyone in Wildwood, including Allie's handsome neighbor on the film set, Blake Fulton, seems to be hiding secrets, and Allie doesn't know who she can trust. If she can't find the answers in time, history may repeat itself . . . with the most unthinkable results.
Lisa Wingate is a journalist, inspirational speaker, reviewer for the New York Journal of Books, and the author of over twenty novels. Her novels combine elements of history, romance, mystery, and women's fiction with nuggets of Southern culture, from the sublime to the humorous. She is a seven-time American Christian Fiction Writers Carol award nominee, a Christy Award nominee, an Oklahoma Book Award finalist, a Christianity Today Book Award nominee, an Inspy Award nominee, and a two-time Carol Award winner. Her works have been selected for BooklistÃs Top Ten List in 2012 and in 2013. Recently, the group Americans for More Civility, a kindness watchdog organization, selected Lisa along with Bill Ford, Camille Cosby, and six others, as recipients of the National Civies Award, which celebrates public figures who work to promote greater kindness and civility in American life.
Bethany House * Amazon * Barnes & Noble * Book Depository
My Review: *****--5 Stars
I loved the way this story went back and forth between historical times and modern day. The way the characters and storyline were woven together was brilliant! Lisa Wingate paints a vivid picture in the reader's mind with her descriptions--I could actually visualize the characters and the setting. As in any good mystery, there are characters that I just love to hate and others that I adore. As the mystery unraveled, I couldn't turn the pages fast enough to find out who did it and what was going on. I thought it was very creatively done.
Allie had to learn to stand up for herself and fight from an early age. She was quite independent, yet she was also determined to please those around her, which seemed to be exhausting. Kim, her best friend, was very fickle. She seemed to wear rose colored glasses and would flit around doing what made her happy at the moment and wanted to check out when the going got tough. They were a good friend combination.
Content: a few instances of religious moments (not preachy); a small handful of cursing; some violence (talk of kidnappings, murders, etc); very few romantic situations. Clean!
I loved the way this story went back and forth between historical times and modern day. The way the characters and storyline were woven together was brilliant! Lisa Wingate paints a vivid picture in the reader's mind with her descriptions--I could actually visualize the characters and the setting. As in any good mystery, there are characters that I just love to hate and others that I adore. As the mystery unraveled, I couldn't turn the pages fast enough to find out who did it and what was going on. I thought it was very creatively done.
Allie had to learn to stand up for herself and fight from an early age. She was quite independent, yet she was also determined to please those around her, which seemed to be exhausting. Kim, her best friend, was very fickle. She seemed to wear rose colored glasses and would flit around doing what made her happy at the moment and wanted to check out when the going got tough. They were a good friend combination.
Content: a few instances of religious moments (not preachy); a small handful of cursing; some violence (talk of kidnappings, murders, etc); very few romantic situations. Clean!
Lisa Wingate is a journalist, inspirational speaker, reviewer for the New York Journal of Books, and the author of over twenty novels. Her novels combine elements of history, romance, mystery, and women's fiction with nuggets of Southern culture, from the sublime to the humorous. She is a seven-time American Christian Fiction Writers Carol award nominee, a Christy Award nominee, an Oklahoma Book Award finalist, a Christianity Today Book Award nominee, an Inspy Award nominee, and a two-time Carol Award winner. Her works have been selected for BooklistÃs Top Ten List in 2012 and in 2013. Recently, the group Americans for More Civility, a kindness watchdog organization, selected Lisa along with Bill Ford, Camille Cosby, and six others, as recipients of the National Civies Award, which celebrates public figures who work to promote greater kindness and civility in American life.
Tour-Wide Giveaway
February 10 - March 2nd US Only
See Rafflecopter for restrictions.
1 Winner, 1 Amazing Prize Pack:
$50 Amazon Gift Card
Print copy of Wildwood Creek by Lisa Wingate
Handmade-by-author Prayer Box with notepads
1 Winner, 1 Amazing Prize Pack:
$50 Amazon Gift Card
Print copy of Wildwood Creek by Lisa Wingate
Handmade-by-author Prayer Box with notepads
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Follow the rest of the tour!
Follow the rest of the tour!
2/10: Launch
2/14: Mel's Shelves
2/22: Grand Finale
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Under Zenith by Shannen Crane Camp Blog Tour/Review
About The Book:
Release Date: 2.11.14
Publisher: Crushing Hearts and Black Butterfly Publishing (also known as CHBB)
Genre: New Adult
Synopsis: It was the most important day of her life, and for 21-year-old Isla Edison, graduating from college with a useless degree in vocal performance was all part of her master plan. Dying in a car accident only hours later wasn't part of that plan. Yet there she was, standing over her own lifeless body and panicking about ruining the truck her parents had bought as a graduation present. Talk about a bad way to repay them. If coming to terms with the hereafter wasn’t enough to deal with, Isla suddenly finds herself stuck with Hayden, a gorgeous Brit with a bad attitude and a penchant for throwing her off cliffs to keep her in line. Worst of all, Hayden is her Guide, and until she completes six impossible and totally random tasks to reach her mysterious Destination, she's stuck with him. Isla's major problem, though, is that she doesn't know what reaching her Destination actually entails, and soon the mystery surrounding her new afterlife seems more ominous than any purgatory she could possibly imagine. Now Isla must decide if she'll trust her dark and brooding Guide despite his "bad boy" act, or if she'll risk failing her tasks and facing the unknown alone.
My Review: *****--5 Stars
I absolutely love a book that I can close with a squee and my only thought is, "WOW!" This was one of those books! I loved how creative and fresh it was--such a unique story.
Isla has no idea what's going on, yet she's determined to make it to her Destination. She repeatedly asks Hayden for help, yet it's up to her to complete her tasks on her own. I loved Isla's ingenuity and ability to think calmly and rationally. I was rooting for her, not only in her tasks, but in figuring out the unknown.
Hayden was also a mystery and I enjoyed seeing him soften--just a little--from his bad boy toughness. His gruffness was a perfect contrast to Isla's personality.
I loved the way the ending unfolded--I didn't see it coming, yet I loved it! I don't want to give too much away, but this really was an original, entertaining book, one that I would recommend.
Content: a few perilous moments, but no language, no detailed intimate scenes (aside from kissing), and no extreme violence.
Book Links:
Goodreads
Amazon
About the Author:
Shannen Crane Camp was born and raised in Southern California, where she developed a love of reading, writing, and anything having to do with film. After high school, she moved to Utah to attend Brigham Young University, where she received a degree in Media Arts and found herself a husband in fellow California native Josh Camp. The two now live in either California or Utah... they still can't decide.
Author Links:
Goodreads
Blog/Site
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Cover Reveal--Winter in the Soul by Jennifer Novotney
Winter in the Soul by Jennifer Novotney
Genre:
YA Fantasy
Release
Date: July 15, 2014
Blurb:
In a
world divided by power and greed, seventeen-year-old Lilika harbors
an intense desire to return to Winter in the Soul, the place her
family left to escape the darkness that was manifesting from a coldness of
the soul.
When she
meets Talon, their connection is evident right from the start, and
together they travel through the Black Kingdom to recover Lilika’s stolen
locket. And in search of an answer to the mystery behind Winter in the
Soul.
Lilika holds the key to stopping the darkness from spreading. The fate of their world lies in her hands. Will she stop the Black Kingdom before its darkness overtakes them all, or will they succumb to the darkness that is spreading across the land?
Author
Bio:
Jennifer
Novotney was born in Burbank, California and lived in Los Angeles for most of
her life until settling in North Eastern Pennsylvania with her husband and
daughter. She attended California State University, earning a bachelors degree
in journalism, and Northern Arizona University, earning a masters degree in
English. After college, she spent several years writing and teaching, including
at Pennsylvania State University.
Website: www.jennifernovotney.com
Twitter: www.twitter.com/jennovotney
Facebook: www.facebook.com/jen.novotney
Links:
Add to Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20869515-winter-in-the-soul
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