What I'm reading this (almost) first week of November 2006...

First off, I topped 10,000 hits on my blog this morning after starting it in the middle of April 2006. So that's exciting. On to what I'm reading this week...
I'm about 1/3 of the way through Like Sheep Gone Astray by Leslie Sherrod. The tension persists and I'm intrigued by the conflict. I can't wait to see what happens when his wife figures out what's going on! I'm on chapter 7 of A Vow to Cherish. Deborah Raney really knows how to draw you into a story. I watched the movie when it first came out and have noticed some differences, but for the most part it's the same. It's different reading a book after you've seen the movie, but so far it's holding my interest. I started Relentless by Robin Parrish. My son told me months ago (when the book first arrived) that I had to be careful reading the story because he couldn't stop reading it and read it straight through (like he went to bed at 5 A.M. after continually telling himself...just one more chapter) so I put off reading this one until now. So far it's definitely different. I'm keeping it at work so there is no chance of a sleepless night for me. I'm still reading Trial by Ordeal by Craig Parshall. Poor guy probably thinks I don't like his book. I do, but haven't felt compelled to pick it up in a month or so mainly because it's not my favorite genre. I hope to read more this week. I'm also planning to begin Anna's Journey by Nancy Toback this week. I'm about half way through the non-fiction title How to Study the Bible (youth edition) by Tim LaHaye. I think we're going to follow the outline for our family Bible studies next year. The author has fabulous recommendations and I've tried a few things already and like his ideas. That's it for now. Stay tuned.

Want a frightening experience?

I'm not into glorifying evil in any manner, but this is twisted and if you watch the whole thing I guarantee you'll choke on your lunch. :)

This is one freaky experience!!!

And by all means, feel free to comment. I'd love to read them. hehehehehe...

My review of Through Every Storm by Sharlene MacLaren

From the Publisher:

Jeff and Maddie are struggling through the tragic loss of a child. Their immense pain and unresolved grief severely strains their marriage and they are heading toward divorce. Both question whether their lives will ever be normal again. Then, when faced with having to care for a precocious little boy, Maddie slowly realizes how to let God be in control even when life is crashing down around her.

My review:

Through Every Storm blew me away. First of all, the author's ability to pull you into the emotional struggles of the characters was amazing. Often I find that emotion in novels feels more contrived than real. Not so with this story. The actions and reactions of the couple were frighteningly real. The withdrawal, the inability to communicate, the misinterpretation of things said. All are classics signs of marital trouble. When Maddie and Jeff each individually re-experienced their memories, I was there with them. I identified with how they were feeling. The attraction between them was almost as strong as the hurt, but they had forgotten what they had originally loved about each other. That's so true with grief. The need to blame someone else as well as ourselves. If only he had this...if only I had that...

Jeff was a true man in every situation and I felt like I understood where he was coming from. He just wanted his wife to respond to him, not push him away. The author did a bang-up job representing the male point of view. Then there is little Timmy. I fell in love with this boy genius who Jeff teasingly nicknamed "Einstein" because he was too smart for his own good. He reminded me so much of my own kids, especially my eldest son. I loved how Timmy was perceptive enough to see the couple's pain and how he tried to bring them together. He was so innocent and endearing.

Through Every Storm is a well-written, well-paced novel that is loaded with tension. The conflict felt real to me, and the spiritual progression of the characters was highly believable. In fact, this story was so well written I couldn't find a thing that pulled me from the story. I especially loved the bikini top joke. What a hoot. There were so many tender moments that touched my heart--especially toward the end--that I literally felt my heart warming as I read the touching, healing words. This story is a real winner and is as beautiful as the cover, if not more so. Highly recommended!

Through Every Storm is published by Whitaker House and will be released for sale in January 2007.

My review of Embrace Grace by Liz Curtis Higgs

Embrace Grace is one of the most encouraging and insightful non-fiction books I've read that addresses the forgiven life that can only be found in Christ. Liz discusses a multitude of topics based on e-mails she has received from women who were hurting and needed assurance that their Heavenly Father loves them and has forgiven them. I received comfort within the pages of Embrace Grace that I, too, am not exempt from God's ever-reaching power and all-encompassing grace. For me the most powerful chapter was "Embrace Sin." What? You ask. Embrace sin? Here's the subtitle. "How could he love me after all I've done?" This chapter includes both before and after salvation. It still gives me goosebumps and I get a little choked up when I think about it. Very powerful. A must read. Need I say more?

My review of The Novelist by Angela Hunt

From the Publisher:
From the author who taught you to expect the unexpected...an intriguing tale about families, fiction, and what to do when life veers wildly off script.

It begins...when a smug college student challenges a best-selling novelist to write something "more personal." It begins...when a mother finds her troubled son slumped unconscious outside her house. It begins...when fiction and reality blur, and the novelist finds herself caught somewhere in the middle of it all. Where does it end? That all depends on who is telling the story...

My review:
This is the first book authored by Angela Hunt that I've read, though I own many. Now I'm wondering why I waited so long to discover this talented author's work. I've read many stories with parallel times or situations, usually with the present reverting to a historical setting, and often I prefer one story over the author. I want to flip past the present story to read the good stuff...the story within the story. But The Novelist isn't like that. It's the only book I've ever read where I can stay that both stories equally stimulated me. They both held my attention. Both stories contained "the good stuff" I crave in a book. I love emotion, believable conflict, and a story that sucks me in so much that I can't stop reading it. And the allegory was so incredibly well done and ingenious that it literally blew my mind. I now see Christ's redemption even more powerfully because of the allegorical tale in this book. (BTW, I also love romance, but there wasn't much in this baby--and I still loved it! That's how you can be certain it was fabulous.)

The Novelist is one of the best books I've read in regards to tying things together in a convincing and satisfying conclusion. I loved how Angela Hunt showed the author in the story growing more than the person she hoped to influence with her story, and after fighting the Lord, she ended up being okay with that. Aren't most of us like this? We elbow the person next to us when the pastor is preaching a convicting message, but we should be looking at our own hearts first. The Novelist had me looking at my own heart and I'm better for the experience. Few stories impact me so much that I want to grab people off the street to tell them they MUST read this book, but The Novelist is one of them. It's got a powerful message that is seamlessly woven in, dynamic characters who will grip your heart, and it deals with sensitive subjects in an incredibly sensitive and well-informed manner. I loved this story because it has impacted my life--and not just because I am also a novelist--but because it's so rich and satisfying. I highly recommend it.

Fiction In Rather Short Takes features Coldwater Revival by Nancy Jo Jenkins for November 2006

It is November 1st, time for the FIRST Day Blog Tour! (Join our alliance! Click the button!) The FIRST day of every month we will feature an author and their latest book's FIRST chapter!

This month's feature author is:

Nancy Jo Jenkins

This blog is featuring a contest to win a
copy of Nancy's new book, Coldwater Revival. Just put in a comment and you
may be the winner!

Just three weeks before her wedding, Emma Grace Falin has returned to her hometown of Coldwater, Texas, consumed by a single, burning desire. She must confront the guilt and shame of a devastating event that has haunted her since childhood.
"...What a stunning debut novel."
--Wendy Lawton, Literary Agent, author of Impressions in Clay

"An astonishing debut! Coldwater Revival is a hauntingly beautiful story made doubly so by Nancy Jo Jenkins stunning, lyrical writing. I was mesmerized from cover to cover."
--Deborah Raney, author of A Nest of Sparrows and A Vow to Cherish

AUTHOR INTERVIEW: Meet Nancy Jo...

Q. How long did it take you to write Coldwater Revival?

A. I perceived the idea for Coldwater Revival in June, 2003, and completed the manuscript in March, 2005.

Q. Tell us about your journey from writer to published novelist.

A. During my teaching career, I dreamed of the day when I could write the stories that continually swam around in my head. I didn't know at the time that it would take me four or five years of attending workshops, conferences, retreats, lectures, and of studying tapes, books and other materials before I was ready to put my newly-acquired knowledge to use, and begin writing the stories that God had prompted me to write. In March, 2004, at the Mount Hermon Christian Writing Conference, I submitted a book proposal to Steve Laube (Literary agent), and Jeff Dunn, (Acquisitions Editor) for RiverOak. Both gentlemen asked me to send them all I had written on Coldwater Revival, which at the time was 109 pages. During the summer of 2004, both men offered me a contract. My book was published by RiverOak and released in May, 2006.

Q. The agony and healing Emma Grace went through are so real. What personal experiences did you draw from to portray Emma Grace's feelings so well?

A. There was a time in my life when I suffered with depression, though it was not due to a death in the family, as Emma Grace's was. At the time, it seemed that I was in a daily knock-down, drag-out fistfight with sadness. I was truly blessed in that I was never prescribed any kind of medication to treat my depression, which proved to be relatively short-lived. But I did receive counseling, which was just what I needed to win the battle with this debilitating condition. During that time of depression I endured many of the symptoms that Emma Grace suffered through. Excessive sleeping was about the only symptom we did not share. There were times when I couldn't swallow my food, and times when I could almost touch the face of that same blackness that almost overwhelmed Emma Grace. Her sorrow and guilt were difficult scenes for me to write, and I found myself crying each time I wrote about Emma Grace's sadness and the continual ache in her heart.

Q. Emma Grace loses all desire for life when her brother dies - not eating or talking, just living in the blissful cocoon of sleep. Do you have any advice for folks who are in that dark place right now?

A. Communication was the key that unlocked the door of depression for me. Communicate with God, even if the only words you can utter are the words, "Help me." But I also benefited greatly from talking to a certified counselor; one who was trained in helping people express their pain, their needs, their fears. I hope that anyone who feels sad and lonely for an extended length of time, will contact their pastor, or someone who can direct them to a Christian counselor.

Q. Emma Grace's grandmother lives in the city while the rest of the family lives in the country. Why do you think she didn't move out to the country with the rest of the family long ago?

A. Granny Falin immigrated from Ireland to America with her husband and son when Emma Grace's papa was just a lad. This family shared a dream about their new country. It would be a place where they could find work and prosperity, raise their family, and put down roots. Even the Great Hurricane of 1900 couldn't wash those dreams from Granny's heart. Though her only remaining child lived a hundred miles away in the rural township of Coldwater, Texas, Granny could never leave Galveston. The island and the sea that surrounded the island were her home now. It was where the ashes of her husband and three children were buried. It was the home she and her husband had dreamed of during their desperate years together in Ireland. If she left Galveston and moved to Roan's home, she would be giving up the dream she had shared with her husband.

Q. Papa and Elo have a tough time showing their emotions. Elo, especially, is so hard to read in the book. Why do you think some people hole up inside themselves rather than sharing their emotions?

A. I believe we are born with a portion of our personality already deeply embedded within us. Some people are reticent to express their feelings and emotions, while others have no problem whatsoever in expressing what they feel or think. I have known many individuals who are like Elo; people we sometimes refer to as "the strong, silent type". Papa and Elo are powerful protectors and providers who waste little time and effort on words. Both of these men feel that "actions speak louder than words". Added to that is the fact that Elo feels extreme discomfort when his mother and sisters are emotionally distraught, therefore, he maintains a rigid demeanor, in part, to provide a stable link in the chain that makes up his family - The Falins.

Q. Do you have other books coming out soon?

A. Thank you for asking about my upcoming books. I'm about to submit my proposal for a novel entitileld, "Whisper Mountain". This story takes place in the early 1900's in the Great Smoky Mountains. It is the story about lost love, and a desperate woman's journey to fill the void that deprivation and loss have left in her heart. The story has elements of mystery, intrigue, murder, and of course, romance. I'm very excited about this story. I've also begun writing a sequel to "Coldwater Revival" which will parallel both Emma Grace's life after 1933, and the adventurous trek Elo begins when he falls in love.

THE FIRST CHAPTER of
Coldwater Revival

One

Coldwater, Texas

Three weeks before I was to marry Gavin O'Donnell, I set my feet upon the beaten path leading to Two-Toe Creek. What I had to offer Gavin in marriage—my whole heart, or just a part—depended on the
decision I would make today.

As my feet tracked the dusty pathway they stirred loose soil to the air. My heart stirred as well, for the guilt I had buried in its depths smoldered as though my brother had just died, and not five years earlier. In the shadowed days following the tragedy, my disgrace had glared like a packet of shiny new buttons. I'd not thought to hide it at the time. In truth, I'd thought of little, other than how to survive. But at some point during that time of sorrowful existence, when my days and nights strung together like endless telegraph wires, I dug a trench around my heart and buried my shame.

From that day until this, I deeded myself the actor's role, closing the curtain on my stain of bitter memories, hiding my sorrow behind a veil of pretense. But that old deceiver, Time, had neither softened my guilt nor put it to rest; only allowed it ample pause to fester like deadly gangrene. Now, as the day of my wedding drew near, my heart cried out for healing. It was, you see, far wiser than my head. My heart understood its need for restoration—before I exchanged wedding vows with Gavin. For this reason, I now walked the trail to Two-Toe Creek. To revisit my failures of yesteryear and reclaim the peace that had slipped past the portals of my childhood. Perhaps then I could give Gavin the entirety of my heart.

***My 2 cents! I loved it and I gave it a Five Star rating on Amazon.***

What I'm reading this fourth week of October 2006...

I'm still reading the non-fiction title Embrace Grace by Liz Curtis Higgs and I'm almost finished. Her Embrace Sin chapter was convicting and incredibly insightful. I'm still reading Trial by Ordeal by Craig Parshall but haven't gotten further yet because I'm not in the mood to read anything in that genre right now. I'm still reading Like Sheep Gone Astray by Leslie Sherrod. I haven't started it up again, but will soon. I'm REALLY enjoyingThe Novelist by Angela Hunt. Wonderful story! The cool part is there is also a story within the story and I like that one, too. Usually when people have dual stories in a book (example, past and present) I usually love the past best. This one has both in the present and it's really unique. You need to check this book out. I'm still planning to read Anna's Journey by Nancy Toback when I finish up a few of these books, and then A Vow to Cherish by Deb Raney. I've been wanting to read Deb's novel for well over a month but it kept getting bumped. I'm still reviewing How to Study the Bible for Yourself (youth edition) by Tim LaHaye. Most exciting of all is that I started Through Every Storm by Shar MacLaren and I'm totally captivated with the story...as in sucked in and I keep sneaking peeks at the book wanting to read it. When I obsess on a story at work and can't wait to get home to read it, that's a good sign. You'll love this one, folks, but it doesn't come out until January so you'll have to hold yer horses and put it on your MUST READ list for now.

Wow! Got another book in the mail!

That makes...46 books to be reviewed! Gah! Well, at least this time I was excited when I got the book in the mail. It's Orphans and Widows by Susan Meissner. First I need to read her story Seahorse in the Thames. Too many great stories, not enough time!!!

Check out The Election by Jerome Teel

Here is the book description...

Ed Burke has waited a lifetime to become president of the United States. He's not about to let his nemesis, Mac Foster, stop him now...especially when he's sold his soul for the Oval Office.

Claudia Duval has lived a rough life. And finally, things have turned around for her after meeting the wealthy Hudson Kinney. But is all what is seems?

When a prominent citizen is murdered in Jackson, Tennessee, attorney Jake Reed doesn't want to know the truth. He just wants to get his client off. But as he investigates, he uncovers a sinister scheme. A scheme that would undermine the very democracy of America...and the freedom of the entire world.

My thoughts...

I have no idea if this book is any good or not, but why don't you check it out? It certainly sounds interesting to me. The CFBA has it listed for this week so I want to get the word out.

Here are the links...

The Election

Jerome Teel

My review of Violette Between by Alison Strobel

I finished Violette Between late last night. I have to admit that the ending surprised me. This story was very different than any novel I've read before. At first the way it was laid out confused me, but when I got used to it I enjoyed the style. I also enjoyed how the author had the heroine watching herself do something in the past, but she was seeing it in the present. Sort of like A Christmas Carol but without a ghost from the past. The spiritual theme was very well done and I loved how the author showed how consistency and love from Christians can make a big difference in a grieving person's life. I also thought it was very romantic and did a great job showing tension between marriage partners when the faith of each partner differs. I recommend it. Violette Between was published by Waterbrook Press and was released in May 2006.

My review of A Rosie Journal by Marianne

A Rosie Journal is so adorable I can hardly stand it. What a perfect gift for a young girl or young adult woman to use to track their progress on their novel! (I'm thinking of Betsy here.) This attractive book is a journal that resembles a diary. The little stick cartoon character on the cover is on every page of the book (well over 300 pages) and she's in different places on each page musing about writing a best-selling novel. Some of her comments are hilarious and others are very motivating and insightful. I especially loved her "I have writer's block" scenarios and how she tries to solve them by talking to an author who is a porcupine. Hilarious! I dare say that any female author (aspiring or otherwise) who is looking for a way to organize and track their writing journey is going to want to get this journal. It's gorgeous, sturdy, and creative. I love it! A Rosie Journal is published by Kregel and is available now (as of September 2006). Just in time for Christmas.

My review of The Fall of the Nephilim by Douglas Hirt

This review was first written for Christian Book Preview's site.

My review:

The Fall of the Nephilim is a unique novel with a science fiction twist on the Biblical account of Noah's ark. All of the characters from the Biblical story are present, but in Hirt's book he adds a few characters for additional conflict. One is the eldest son of Noah, Wend, who is never mentioned in the Scriptures. However, Hirt illuminates the Noah's characterization in a way that makes sense...through his dialogue and description. In particular, he offers a believable explanation for Nephilim and their purpose in the Old Testament, as well as showing a glimpse of the depravity of man--such as human sacrifice--which led to God's decision to destroy the earth and begin anew. Hirt's novel makes me think of Noah meets Darth Vader (in Star Wars) with a bit of C. S. Lewis's Screwtape Letters and Frank Peretti's This Present Darkness inserted for added flavor.

For the most part The Fall of the Nephilim an action-packed tale. It has a lot going on...sometimes so much you lose track of the details. However, as in the famous tale of the "unsinkable ship" The Titanic, the reader knows in advance how The Fall of the Nephilim will end because it mirrors the Biblical account of Noah. We know that not all was lost, and that he and his family were saved. Thus at the outset there is a sense of hope. In Hirt's account, Noah has additional children and grandchildren not mentioned in the Scriptures--who are lost, but Shem, Ham, and Japheth and their wives in the Genesis account were saved from the coming destruction.

On occasion I felt like the author went on a bit too long in his description-- like when Noah and his sons were choosing the wood for the ark--almost to the point where I found myself losing interest. Other portions were riveting, such as the scenes with Lucifer and his minions plotting to take Noah out, or at least bring him down. Overall, I'd say Hirt's novel offered an insightful look into the Great Flood as well as the inner workings of the enemy's mind as he attacks out human weaknesses. For people who love Sci fi, Biblical fiction, and spiritual warfare books, this story is sure to be a hit because it contains all of the above. The Fall of the Nephilim is published by RiverOak and was released in May 2006.

What I'm reading this third week of October 2006...

I'm reading the non-fiction title Embrace Grace by Liz Curtis Higgs...unbelievably insightful book. Very encouraging and just what I need to hear right now. I'm still reading Trial by Ordeal by Craig Parshall but haven't gotten much further. I'm reading Violette Between by Alison Strobel and over halfway done with the story. It's very different. Stay tuned. I'm still reading Like Sheep Gone Astray by Leslie Sherrod. Great story, but I had to set it aside as well as the other books I'm reading to squeeze in The Fall of the Nephilim by Douglas Hirt, which was due to Christian Book Preview last month. I completely lost it in my huge pile so I've got a rush on it. It's very thick, but not boring (thank you, Lord) and I hope to finish it within the next few days. It's a sci fi story about Noah's Ark. Very, very different. I'm still reading The Novelist by Angela Hunt. Wonderful story, but I had to halt reading that one, too, to make my other review. I hope to read Anna's Journey by Nancy Toback when I finish up a few of these books, and then A Vow to Cherish by Deb Raney. I've been wanting to read that for well over a month but it kept getting bumped. Oh, and Generation NeXt Parenting (non-fiction by Tricia Goyer) is now out and I'm going to read that one because I'm in it. Yep, you heard right. I'm in it quite a few times, quoted because I am a gen X parent and one of Tricia's guinea pigs (just kidding.) It was fun helping Tricia with that book. And last but not least I'm reviewing How to Study the Bible for Yourself (youth edition) by Tim LaHaye. I know, it's weird that I'm reading so much non-fiction. I'm a sucker for a good book and have decided to branch out a hair. :)

Featured this week...Like Dandelion Dust by Karen Kingsbury...

Well, I've seen this book everywhere, including Target. That's impressive. I've heard everything from how wonderful this novel is to how NOT so wonderful it is. I'll have to read it for myself to decide. I tend to love tear-jerker stories and since this one includes adoption issues, it's probably right up my alley. There is so much emotion involved in adoption because an adoptive parent/family's heart is at stake. While I've never adopted a child myself, I've worked directly and indirectly with people for years who were involved in the process. My guess is that Karen put some of her heart into the book since it reflects on her true-to-life experience as an adoptive parent. For that, I applaud her. Now I just have to get the story and read it for myself. Meanwhile, why don't you pick up a copy and tell me what you thought of the book when you're done?

To get a copy of the book go to...

amazon.com

To check out Karen's website go to...

Karen Kingsbury.com

Writer...Interrupted is looking for posts for...

their first edition of the Carnival of Christian Writers. There is plenty of writing related material out there so please send your original submissions! Posts are needed from writers about writing. Please read the guidelines and submit your entry by October 28th.

http://blogcarnival.com/bc/cprof_550.html

My review of Mozart's Sister by Nancy Moser...

From the Publisher:

Young Nannerl Mozart's life seems to be the stuff of fairy tales--traveling far and wide, performing with little brother Wolfgang before kings and queens. But behind the glamour lurk hardships, illness, and constant financial worries. Their father, Leopold, is driven to bring his son's genius to the attention of the world. But what of Nannerl's talent and aspirations? And what of the man she loves? Readers will be captivated by the sometimes heartrending--and ultimately inspiring--story of a woman who struggles with her dreams and her faith in a world where a woman's place was at home.

My review:

The opening scene pulled me into the story, whetting my appetite for more. I thought the author's use of different words from music composition to describe each stage of Nannerl's life incredibly genius.

The author's attention to culture and detail created a fascination in me for that era. I was there. I also found the Mozart family's eccentricities interesting. As the story continued I found myself empathizing with Nannerl. A few times I wish she'd made better choices for herself, but since this was based on her actual life, the author didn't have much liberty there. I thoroughly enjoyed being drawn into that portion of European history with all of its sad realities. More people died than lived, especially children and infants. And the horrid practices of medical science at the time made me cringe as I read about them.

I appreciated the author's obvious research into the way things were for women in the late 18th century. My heart ached for Nannerl as she continued to be the obedient child despite the consequences. I loved her epiphany when she realized that Wolfie did what he wanted and still managed to do well with his life, and she denied herself her own desires and wishes only to be disappointed in the end. I ached for her loss of love, her desire to please her family at her own expense, yet I found it very realistic. The author made me care about this woman born so long ago.

At first I wasn't sure I'd like the ending because of circumstances I shall not mention or it would be a spoiler, but let me just say that I ended up feeling good about the way the author concluded the story of Nannerl Mozart's life. That made me feel much better when I closed the book. I could not have made some of the sacrifices Nannerl made and applaud the author for bringing insight into the times Nannerl was forced to live in. Wonderful story, heartwrenching on several occasions, but thoroughly enjoyable. I adored every page and am thoroughly impressed with the author's use of the first person point of view. I often failed to notice and felt as if I were the heroine in the story. For that I give the author a hearty, bravo!

Mozart's Sister was published by Bethany House Publishers and released in September 2006

My review of Calm, Cool & Adjusted by Kristin Billerbeck

Another perfect title by Kristin Billerbeck, Calm, Cool & Adjusted sums up Poppy Clayton's life better than any title I could have come up with! Poppy lives for serenity and calmness, or as she calls it, energy. She could care less about looking cool, but that's not the kind of cool the author means. Poppy finds that special cool after thawing out, and I loved the character arc! It's what I live to read!

The adjusted word works very well in regards to defining not only her profession as a chiropractor, but it doubles up to describe her need to work things through and go with the flow, to stop being so anal and overanalyzing everything and heal from the past. Get unstuck and show your love with your words and deeds, Poppy girl!

And the first line is my very favorite opening of all time... Desperation has a scent. Is that incredibly witty, or what?

Though I loved A Girl's Best Friend a lot (probably because I'm blonde, too, and Morgan was just a lovable character), I think I love this story the most! I totally adore Poppy and her quirks and defensiveness. Her obsessions are hilarious and the insightful comments about nutrition and exercise border on convicting at times. LOL!

Billerbeck has an amazing ability to be snarky and yet fun in her style. I love her wit and wisdom, and the faith portion is always gracefully woven into the story. I feel like I learned the most from this book in regards to God's timing, the value of friendship, and the need for inner healing to move on. Wonderful stuff!

Also, the tension is unbearable. Who will Poppy choose to be with, or will she decide to stay single? GAH! That had me going. Fortunately, the author chose the right ending or I would've screamed and it wouldn't have been pretty! Billerbeck knows how to get to a reader's heart and she pulls me in every time. I can't say enough good things about this story! Of all of Kristin's chick lit titles, this one grabbed my heart the most! Bravo!

Calm, Cool & Adjusted was published by Integrity and released in October 2006.

Check it out! I've featured Calm, Cool & Adjusted on my website as my book pick of the month! I also have a darling picture of Kristin and I on my gallery of photos page. Here is the link...

www.michellesutton.net

Violette Between is the CFBA book featured this week...

Nice picture, isn't it? I'm on page 62 and still trying to figure out what is going to happen. It's different from anything I've read so far. I'm enjoying her memories of her husband who died. Sentimental and sweet. Other than that, I'm clueless as to what's going to happen next. That's good because it's not predictable and for me, predictable = boring. I hate a dull book. So, I guess the fact that I'm not sure what the deal is will keep me reading, huh? Anyone care to bet me on that? I'm not a better person, but even if I was I wouldn't know what to wager just yet. :)

And here is a little note from Alison herself about a booksigning she has coming up tomorrow night in California...

For those of you in the Orange County area who are looking for something to do Thursday night, I'll be reading from, answering questions about, and signing my second novel, "Violette Between," at 7 PM at the Borders in Rancho Santa Margarita. Please come introduce yourself if you come!

And here are two handy links for you!

www.amazon.com

www.alisonstrobel.com

What I'm reading this second week of October 2006...

As y'all know I finished The Measure of a Lady by Deeanne Gist last night because once I got into the story I had a hard time stopping. I really enjoy books that suck me in. Some are better than others when it comes to pulling me into a story, and I have a special place in my heart for historicals.

I'm thoroughly enjoying Kristin Billerbeck's Calm, Cool and Adjusted. Great tension in the story. One of the things I love about Kristin's books is she has a way of making you wonder who the right man for the heroine is and when she introduces several possible men, you scratch your head and try to decide. She's really good at fooling me, but usually I catch on about halfway through and then I feel really smart, ha ha.

I started Like Sheep Gone Astray by Leslie Sherrod last night. I want to slap the hero's wife because she's so self-centered. I love it when an author makes me care. I'm on page 51. I also started Violette Between last night because I joined the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance and the book they are featuring this week is Alison Strobel's book Violet Between. I figured since I had the book on my shelf I might as well crack it open. I'm a tad confused with this one because it hops between 2005 and 1988 and I have no clue why. I guess I'll need to keep reading to figure that out, huh?

Oh, and for my dilectable historical selection I have Mozart's Sister by Nancy Moser. What an interesting story. It starts in a graveyard. Have I piqued your interest? I'm still reading Trial by Ordeal by Craig Parshall. I'm just not in the mood to read this one right now. Not sure why.

I'm also still reading the Heartsong called Letters from the Enemy by Susan May Warren. This story is taking me forever to read. It's not boring so I don't know why it isn't pulling me. I'll let you know when I figure it out. And last but not least, I'm reading The Novelist, by Angela Hunt, which so far is pretty good. I plan to read that one at work tomorrow when I get breaks.

BTW, guess what stinks? My church is starting a Sunday school class that requires reading 20-30 page chapters every week, and on top of that I do a Bible study with my family every week that requires between 10-20 chapters of the Scriptures as well, and on top of that I'm leading a Bible study on Wednesday nights on I Can't Do it All by Tracie Peterson, et al. (Is that title a hoot or what? Sounds like my life right now.) Did I mention I started singing on the worship team again after taking a six month break?

Why does this all stink? Because I can't do it all and I've already got way too much to read, so adding more reading to my pile is just not fun. But that's how life goes. So hey, if I don't like it nobody can force me to read it, right? The good thing is it's making me way pickier as a reader. No time for boring stories here. Thank the Lord I've already read the book I'm doing for the Bible study I'm leading on Wednesdays. Thankfully I just need to prepare by reviewing the chapter and pulling together more discussion questions and scripture. Maybe I'll learn something from teaching the class, eh?

My review of The Measure of a Lady by Deeanne Gist

I'm completely envious of the author's liberties in writing fiction. I loved her first book A Bride Most Begrudging , but in some ways I think I like this book even more. Not necessarily because it's more interesting. I think Bride takes first place in that regard. However, to me The Measure of a Lady stands out because of the underlying message.

While Lady had some less than stellar moments, overall I found it quite enthralling. I enjoyed the subtle undertones (and sometimes not-so-subtle) of self-righteous thinking, and how the author made the scenarios quite exceptional and thought-provoking. The author beautifully illustrated how fallout can occur when appearances take precedence over people and relationships.

I enjoyed how the author laid out the issues and debated them within the context of the gold rush in 19th-century San Francisco. I also enjoyed Rachel's moral dilemmas. To serve or not to serve...and just how should a Christian serve? How does a lady determine when to avoid any appearance of evil, and when to not even eat with sinners--and then on the flip side...When to reach out to the fallen in love and genuine concern with the hopes of blessing any of those who will listen. And what about forgiveness?

For me this story was much more than a romance (though I do adore how Gist shows the honest thoughts of virile men--something often sorely lacking in most Christian fiction.) Oh, and to my relief the heroine had a desperate attraction/strong feelings for the hero. Thank you Deeanne for showing that women have feelings and drives as well--that it's not just a masculine trait.

That poor heroine Rachel had read that women generally didn't have sexual feelings for men and if they did there was something wrong with them. How sad, yet pervasive was that teaching in the 1800s. Oh, and the scene at the beach! What a sizzler. I loved Rachel's epiphany and I thought the ending was beautiful. I really enjoyed the story and highly recommend it for readers who want a story with an inspirational message but that isn't so sterile that it seems unrealistically pure. Enjoy!

The Measure of a Lady was published by Bethany House Publishers and released in May 2006.

My review of Beetle Bunker by Robert Elmer...

As promised, here it is...



Beetle Bunker is, IMHO, even more interesting than it's predecessor. It's fresh, action packed, and continues the saga from book one of The Wall series. Now Erich (from book one) is an adult and he's working in a hospital. His little sister, stricken with polio as a young child and unable to walk without braces, is almost a teenager and very assertive for a young girl. She knows what she wants...and will let nothing hinder her quest. She longs for freedom. Freedom in the west. But she's stuck in the east section of Berlin, the communist sector. So when she finds a bunker from WWII with a Volkswagen Beetle inside, a flicker of hope shines in the darkness. She devises a plan along with a mysterious boy her age named Willi, who has terrible vision and wears very thick glasses.

Many times while reading Beetle Bunker I totally forgot I was reading a children's story. I felt sucked into the book like I did when I read Jack Cavanaugh's post WWII series about communist Germany. Robert Elmer has a gift for writing children's novels with such depth that they stick with you. I remember reading Night by Eli Weisel as a child and I still remember every detail of that book even without the same redeeming message that Beetle Bunker contains. All of the values you want children to learn are in this wonderful story and I applaud Robert Elmer for bringing some dark portions of world history to light. May our children never forget... Beetle Bunker was published by Zonderkids (Zondervan) and released in September 2006.

What I'll be reading this first weekend of October 2006

Well, I've had a productive day today in regards to reading. I had an appointment in Tucson so I didn't go to work. And, as usual, had to wait and wait. Hence, I got some reading done. Yay! I posted reviews of the two books I finished. By tomorrow morning I'll be posting a review on Beetle Bunker by Robert Elmer. Ironically, it's not at all about bugs, but a fascinating tale from 1961 when the Berlin Wall was erected. The Beetle is an old Volkswagen Beetle that the heroine finds in an old WWII bunker, which they turn into a tunnel to escape from East Berlin. The story was written from a young girl's perspective. I love this story! I have about two chapters to finish. I also picked up Angela Hunt's novel, The Novelist, from the library and started it last night. I know, you're wondering why I would borrow a book to read when I have SO many already? I dunno. It looked good and I was bored. hehehehe. Anyway, I've been reading The Measure of a Lady by Deeanne Gist and so far I'm loving it. I've read through chapter 7 and am on page 91. Not a dull moment yet! I love the subtle tension. :) Anyway, I picked up Mozart's Sister by Nancy Moser to review for PasTimes blog. I review one historical a month for them. I felt the book calling me. It has a gorgeous cover and I totally loved The Good Nearby by the same author so I figured why not? I'm still reading Kristin Billerbeck's Calm, Cool, and Adjusted. I haven't read further because I'm hoping to get a final copy and not an ARC to read. However, if I am in a chick lit mood anytime soon I'll just grab it and go despite the ARC status. :) I'm still reading Craig Parshall's Trial by Ordeal. It started out pretty edgy and sort of interesting, but I was so into Freefall that I have to take a short break from suspense for now and delve into something else. I plan to start Like Sheep Gone Astray by Leslie Sherrod this weekend. That sounds like it'll be one action packed read once I get started. After that I'll have to close my eyes and point because they all look so good!

My review of A Little Girl After God's Own Heart by Elizabeth George

This review was first published for the Christian Book Preview site.


Beautifully illustrated and with all of the girly frills, A Little Girl After God's Own Heart is an attractive and sweet story that is sure to reach every little girl's heart. Characteristics of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, and self-control are the focus of the story. The author brings the meaning of those traits to life in a poetic form and by using practical illustrations and catchy rhymes that a child can easily memorize. Short prayers are inserted where they fit and demonstrations of how to better handle situations are highlighted. For example: (on gentlesness) "When things go wrong, take a step back--Calm down, be thoughtful, and please, don't attack! Words of wisdom to live by. I recommend this book as an instruction guide for children as young as 18 months old and up through about second grade. A Little Girl After God's Own Heart was published by Harvest House Publishers and released August 1, 2006.

My review of Freefall by Kristen Heitzmann

Wow! Freefall left me speechless by the time I finished the story. At first I thought, "I love Kristen Heitzmann. I've read all of her historicals and they were awesome. This'll probably be good, but not as good as her past novels." WRONG! The suspense was incredible. The plot intricate. The setting exotic (nothing like spending time on the beach and not getting a sunburn. I think I even learned how to surf without hitting a single wave.) The romance also sizzled. Of course, those who know me know I love the edgier stuff (in other words, the passion and realism of romantic tension) and this baby is packed with it! The perpetrators and thugs were believeable and unlikeble--as they should be. I felt the heroine's fear, her confusion, her passion. Boy, that was a wild ride! I liked how the author occasionally inserted another person's POV to give you that person's perspective. Sweet. Oh, and the faith element was so smoothly done, I almost forgot to mention it. The spiritual lives and growth of the characters flowed flawlessly within the text, but did so with impact. Overall, I'd have to say that this is the best romantic suspense novel I've EVER read. I mean EVER! Too bad the rest of the world has to wait until Nov. 28th to get their own copy. I read a galley so I had the privilege of getting a sneak peek. Looking back, I can't believe I lost interest halfway through the book. I realize now it was sheer exhaustion from the conference that made me set the book aside. Not the book itself. I give Freefall ten stars! Hehehehe. Freefall is published by Bethany House and will be released Nov. 28, 2006. (Just in time for Christmas!)

What I'm reading this first week of October...

Wondering why I seem to like books from Harvest House so much. :) Hehehe. Anyway, I updated my website with my latest review and a gorgeous photo of me with Trish Perry, author of The Guy I'm Not Dating. I loved that book! Back to what I'm reading...

I started reading Trial By Ordeal by Craig Parshall last night, I'm still reading Beetle Bunker by Robert Elmer and Calm, Cool, and Adjusted by Kristin Billerbeck. I hope to finish Freefall by Kristen Heitzmann over the next few days.

I'm also reading The Measure of A Lady by Deeanne Gist. I love historicals but am in a chick lit contemporary fiction mood these days. Probably because it's all so GOOD! Ack, I wonder if I can even hit it close with my work in progress. We'll see. Also, I picked up Like Sheep Gone Astray by Leslie Sherrod. I've been eyeing this book for some time now and wanting to read it. I get the feeling once I start I'll be hauling it around with me until I'm done! I love books like that!