Now I'm giving away a copy of Set Apart Femininity by Leslie Ludy (non-fiction)

The subtitle is God's Intent for Every Young Woman. Sound good? This book can be yours for a song and a dance. :) Just kidding. Seriously, to enter for a chance to win this book tell me what you like about it when you post your comment and I'll enter your name. Best wishes to you!

About the book:

Leslie Ludy, author of Authentic Beauty and the bestselling When God Writes Your Love Story, reveals how a young woman's pursuit of acceptance and sameness directly counters her true purpose—to be set apart by her love for God and God's love for her.

This empowering message filled with inspiring stories, personal illustrations, and a foundation of God's Word to awaken young women to sacred femininity and a life infused with meaning. Each chapter encourages readers to release worldly standards and set their sights on a more worthy pursuit as they:

*surrender to God's love and wholeness
*embrace the real blueprint for beauty
*enjoy spectacular purpose
*captivate the masculine heart
*cultivate spiritual strength

This journey will spark a desire in every woman to leave the fairy tale of the masses behind and walk toward the unique beauty, love, and dreams God has for her.

My review of Romancing Hollywood Nobody by Lisa Samson

About the book:

Life is gradually coming into focus for 16-year-old Scotty Dawn. Now that they've been reunited with her father, who was presumed killed by the mob, she and her grandmother can stop running. But the trio continues their nomad lifestyle, setting out in search of answers about faith, possible romance . . . and Scotty's mother.

Romancing Hollywood Nobody is the third book in the Hollywood Nobody series. Teen readers will identify with Scotty as she searches for meaning and learns about life and love, while adult readers will appreciate her maturity and unusual perspective on life.

My review:

This is an amazing third installment in an awesome series. I am so hooked on Scotty it's not even funny. I love her personality and the things she is learning. She's one of the best YA characters I've gotten to know because she is quirky and there is so much personality to her. Her innocence is pretty sweet, too. I've particularly enjoyed Romancing Hollywood Nobody because there this (duh) romance in the air for several key characters in the series. I don't want to spoil the fun, so I'm not saying any more. But this entire book was very enjoyable. I also loved the whole tension subplot with Scotty and "the Karissa", especially the part where Scotty deals with wanting to protect her friend Seth "Hottie" Haas. She learns a lot about letting go and allowing people to make their own choices and learn from their mistakes. It's a real growing book for Scotty and I enjoyed it thoroughly.

Romancing Hollywood Nobody was published by NavPress (Th1nk imprint)and released in July 2008.

Win a copy of Home Another Way by Christa Parrish

To enter for a chance to win this book, simply post a comment. I started this story but haven't read that far in to it yet or I would give you my two cents. I will pick a winner on Sunday. Beginning in January I will be going back to only one giveaway per week. Peace!

ABOUT THE BOOK

After her mother’s death and her father’s abandonment, tiny infant Sarah Graham was left to be raised by her emotionally distant grandmother. As a child she turned to music for solace and even gained entrance to Juilliard. But her potentially brilliant music career ended with an unplanned pregnancy and the stillborn birth of her child.

In an attempt to escape the past, Sarah, now twenty-seven, is living life hard and fast–and she is flat broke. When her estranged father dies, she travels to the tiny mountain hamlet of Jonah, New York to claim her inheritance. Once there, she learns her father’s will stipulates a six-month stay before she can recieve the money. Fueled by hate and desperation, Sarah settles in for the bitter mountain winter, and as the weeks pass, she finds her life intertwining with the lives of the simple, gracious townsfolk. Can these strangers teach Sarah how to forgive and find peace?

A story of grace, of God’s never-ceasing love and the sometimes flawed, faithful people He uses to bring His purpose to pass.

If you would like to see a video book trailer of Home Another Way, go HERE.

Have you seen Jeremy Camp's brand new music video?

Well here it is! It gives me the chills. I have so much hope for our youth. If they just see what God can do with their lives. GO Jeremy for telling them what they need to hear. This is a very encouraging video.


Jeremy Camp's new music video Speaking Louder than Before!

Beloved Captive by Kathleen Y'Barbo is up on CFBA!

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Beloved Captive
Barbour Publishing, Inc (November 1, 2008)
by
Kathleen Y’Barbo


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

There’s never a dull moment in the Y’Barbo household! From hockey and cheer mom to publicist to bestselling author, Kathleen Y’Barbo somehow manages to do it all - and well. While wearing her publicist’s hat, Kathleen has secured interviews with radio, television, and print media for clients at NavPress, Hatchette, Integrity, Barbour Publishing, and Broadman & Holman, to name a few. She also brings her own unique blend of Southern charm and witty prose to the more than 350,000 award-winning novels and novellas currently in print. Her novels have been nominated for American Christian Fiction Writers Book of the Year in 2002, 2003, 2004, and 2006; and 2007 will see the release of her 25th book.

Kathleen is a tenth-generation Texan and a mother of three grown sons and a teenage daughter. She is a graduate of Texas A&M University. Kathleen is a former treasurer for the American Christian Fiction Writers, and is a member of the Author’s Guild, Inspirational Writers Alive, Words for the Journey Christian Writers Guild, and the Fellowship of Christian Authors. In addition, she is a sought-after speaker, and her kids think she’s a pretty cool mom, too…most of the time, anyway.

The first book in this series is Beloved Castaway.


ABOUT THE BOOK

In this sequel to Beloved Castaway, Emilie Gayarre is learning to accept her mixed race heritage while finding fulfillment in teaching children of the key. There is no denying the attraction between Emilie and the handsome young naval commander, Caleb Spencer, who is shadowed by his own flock of secrets. But if her heritage is found out, even greater things than his career are at risk. Enjoy this historical romance full of risk and redemption.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Beloved Captive, go HERE.

My thoughts:

I'm halfway through chapter 10 and I'm enjoying the story.

My review of Finding Hollywood Nobody by Lisa Samson

About the book:

For 15-year-old Scotty Dawn, life's beginning to resemble a movie! She recently learned that her film-industry mom is actually her grandmother, and that her father was killed by the mob. With the hit man still at large, Scotty hides on a Hollywood lot, where she battles fear and loneliness and discovers the life-changing power of prayer.

My review:

This is the second book in the series, and while you can read it as a stand alone, I would recommend reading the first book first. It really sets you up for what happens in the second book.

I adore Scotty and her view of the world. I also loved seeing her deal with stressful situations and learning the power of prayer. She is a genuine teen and she cares about people, and because you are in her head you can see what she is thinking and feeling. Scotty continues to blog about the "scoop" regarding Seth and Karissa, and she actually gives pretty sound advice on more than one occasion. That whole celebrity scenario is such fun to read. Then add to that her friend in crisis and a delightful surprise at the end (which made me actually cry several times - but they were happy tears) this book is about as close to perfect as any I've read.

I wish I could say more but that would make this review a spoiler and you don't want that. Half the fun is disovering these things (as a reader) while you enjoy the story. At any rate, Finding Hollywood Nobody has all the makings of a great YA novel. It has believeable characters and situations, realistic conflict, quirky scenarios, and suspenseful plot. I am totally loving this series and plan to read the next installment very soon.

Finding Hollywood Nobody is published by NavPress (Th1nk imprint) and was released in February 2008.

Now I'm giving away the Bell Messenger by Robert Cornuke.

To enter to win a copy of this book simply post a comment telling me what you like about the story based on your reading of the synposis. :) Thanks!



Synopsis

A suspenseful yet touching story of a Civil war Bible that pops up again and again over a century and shapes the very history of the nation.

This rich and involving historical and archeological thriller begins as a Union soldier, Tate, shoots a Confederate preacher known as the Bell Messenger and is bequeathed a worn Bible by the dying man. Tate's historical narrative parallels the contemporary story of John Brandon, who has just graduated college in 2000 and received the very same Bible, unearthed in a Saudi Arabian cave, as a gift.

The potent history of this book is revealed as Brandon searches for its previous owners, along the way uncovering the existence of a mysterious cache of gold hidden during Old Testament times -- which brings shadowy figures hot on Brandon's heels, hungry for the gold and desperate to learn the new clues he possesses.

As the past and present intertwine, the reader learns that this Bible has passed through many hands over the years. From the Civil War to the building of the Central Pacific Railroad, to the gang wars and the holding of Chinese slaves in nineteenth-century California, to the trenches of World War I, Brandon learns of the lives this Bible has saved, the deaths it has caused, and the history it has changed forever

My review of Choices by Katrina L. Burchett

About the book:

Choices is a thought-provoking story about five teenage girls in the city of York, Pennsylvania and how the issue of teen sex affects each of their lives..... Shauntice Johnston has faith in God but the world of domestic abuse she lives in has left her with very little faith in the male gender. And then comes Terry, and her obedience to God's Word (flee fornication) is tested. Angel Nichols doesn't know her earthly father, doesn't care about the heavenly Father and feels neglected by her workaholic mother. She has had numerous sex partners since she was thirteen, trying to fill the void inside of her. LaKeeta Wilson is a Christian, but instead of doing it God's way and waiting for marriage she purposefully became pregnant out of wedlock. Bridgette Anderson practices abstinence in obedience to God, and, no matter what, she will not compromise her beliefs. But this saint still has her flaws. Hope Patterson is a plain dressing, soft-spoken timid Christian girl who lives a sheltered life because of her strict mother. Rebellion puts her in a dangerous situation.

My review:

This was an intense book. The writing style was not the best as there was a lot of head hopping in the story, but the characters were well done and believably flawed. The story was fast paced and intense. At times the detail was almost too much, but I think that is what made the story so rich. This author tells it like it is and without reservation. I love that. I also think this book will really help some teens, so it was well worth my time to read it. If there hadn't been so much head hopping I would've rated it higher because I loved the story itself. I would definitely read another book by this author.

*** note that this book includes sexual situations that are written in detail, so for those who aren't okay with that type of edgy fiction, I'm just letting you know before you read it. However, this story is also very Christian in regards to use of Scripture and the message.

My Friend Amy: Faith 'n Fiction Saturday: Dream Movie

My Friend Amy: Faith 'n Fiction Saturday: Dream Movie

The Death and Life of Gabriel Phillips is up on CFBA.

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
The Death and Life of Gabriel Phillips
FaithWords (November 5, 2008)
by
Stephen Baldwin
&
Mark Tabb

ABOUT THE AUTHORS:

STEPHEN BALDWIN - actor, family man, born-again Christian - makes his home in upstate New York with his wife and two young daughters.

Equally adept at drama and comedy, Baldwin has appeared in over 60 films and been featured on such top-rated television shows as Fear Factor and Celebrity Mole. He has his own production company that is developing projects for television and the big screen. These days, however, his role as director, co-producer and host of Livin' It - a cutting-edge skate video is bringing out his white hot passion for evangelism.

Writer and communicator Mark Tabb calls himself an “internationally unknown author.” Although his books have been published around the world, he is best known for his collaborative works. His 2008 release, “Mistaken Identity”, written with the Van Ryn and Cerak families, hit number one on the New York Times bestseller list for two weeks, and remained on the list for over two months. He and actor Stephen Baldwin teamed up on their 2005 New York Times bestseller, “The Unusual Suspect,” and with their first work of fiction, “The Death and Life of Gabriel Phillips,”


ABOUT THE BOOK

Even years of experience haven't prepared Officer Andy Myers for this case---

When Officer Andy Myers met Loraine Phillips, he had no interest in her son. And he certainly never dreamed he'd respond to a call, finding that same boy in a pool of blood. Even more alarming was the father standing watch over his son's body. Myers had never seen a man respond to death-particularly the death of a child-in such a way. When the father is charged with murder and sentenced to death, he chooses not to fight but embrace it as God's will. Myers becomes consumed with curiosity for these strange beliefs. What follows is the story of the bond these two men share as they come to terms with the tragedy and the difficult choices each one must make.


If you would like to read the first chapter of The Death and Life of Gabriel Phillips, go HERE

*STRONG LANGUAGE*

My thoughts:

Haven't had a chance to read this one yet.

Now I'm giving away Bravehearted Gospel by Eric Ludy (non-fiction)

To enter for a chance to win this book simply post a comment after reading the description of the book and tell me what you like about it. I'll pick a winner on Sunday. Peace!



About the Book:

Eric Ludy calls believers to put a stop to an alarming trend in today's church. Contemporary culture has accused Christians of being politically incorrect, unloving, and narrow-minded in their devotion to God and His Word. And the church has unwittingly played right along:

It has grown to have more in common with the world than with Christ
It seems more concerned about pleasing men than God
It sets aside the pursuit of eternal truth for the pursuit of temporal pleasures
How serious is the problem, and what are the solutions? What does a bravehearted kind of Christianity look like?

Eric presents the Christianity of the Bible as the most explosive, most vibrant, most extraordinary force on Earth—a force meant to bring glory to the Most High God and turn people's hearts in His direction. After reading The Bravehearted Gospel, no Christian will ever want to go back to "Christianity as usual"!

My thoughts:

I started reading this book and found it quite inspiring. I think it's what this lukewarm culture needs. For people who love non-fiction books about serious faith issues, this is a great one to read!

My son gets a scholarship and I have it on video!

It's hard to hear by Nathan is the one in black and he's the one that makes people chuckle. He got a $2000 scholarship to Washington DC this summer to meet senators and do educational things like visit the Smithsonian. He's excited.



Here is a brief interview with Nathan and his guidance counselor. Cute!

Love Nikki Arana? Never heard of her? Here is your chance

to not only win a book (new release coming out) but read an interview. She's a gem and a great writer so check it out and mention that I sent you their way for the contest. :) Here is the announcement and the link.

FREE BOOK! Nikki Arana has an interview and book giveaway at http://wordvessel.blogspot.com/2008/11/author-interview-nikki-arana.html

A free book personalized by the author is a great Christmas gift. And the price is right!

And here is the cover of her most recent release that she will be autographing. Peace!

My review of Havah by Tosca Lee

About the book:

What was it like to be the first woman on earth, to wake to a brand-new creation---and Adam? Why did she become so beguiled by the serpent? In this lyrical retelling of the biblical narrative, Lee brings Eden to life, revealing the dawn of mankind from Eve's viewpoint! (Contains some mature imagery.)

** my thoughts on the mature imagery. Imagine sexual union the way God intended. It's beautiful and Havah will show you just how far we have strayed from what God saw as delightful union between man and wife.

What Publisher's Weekly had to say about Havah in this starred review:

Lee surprised the evangelical Christian literary world with her acclaimed Demon: A Memoir. Her fans will be equally pleased with her newest, a passionate and riveting story of the Bible's first woman and her remarkable journey after being cast from paradise. Havah, Adam's chosen name for Eve, recounts her life from a singular vantage point. From having known only blissful innocence, she must struggle through every post-Garden moment. Frustration compounds her plight as she repeatedly attempts to regain her former idyllic existence and repeatedly fails. Havah's life becomes a fight for survival once she and Adam are cast from the Garden, and Lee's poetic prose beautifully depicts the couple's slow surrender to a world tending to destruction. Havah gives birth, raises a brood of children, watches one son kill another, observes disease and death. Yet all the while, she waits for the fulfillment of "the One" (God) who will bring reconciliation and redemption through her seed. Lee's superior storytelling will have readers weeping for all that Havah forfeited by a single damning choice.

Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Okay, so now you've got the book description and the Publisher's Weekly info, so here is my review of Havah!

My review:

Havah contains such beautiful imagery that I was literally entranced while reading the story. I was in the Garden with Eve. I was Eve. It's amazing how Tosca does that with her writing. Her choice of first person POV and keeping the reader in that one perspective all through the story was brilliant! I loved her book, Demon, but this is even better. I know, hard to imagine. But like with Demon, Havah puts a personal touch on matters of faith. You will think about what the fall means in a whole new way. You will see just how sin destroyed all that God created. Havah is written with such passion and conviction you will glimpse into the heart of "the One Who is" and will understand how much He truly delighted in the creation of man and His communion with him. The emotional pull of this story is truly divine. When Havah cried for Adonai and tried to find him after the fall, it moved my heart. I know just how she felt.

Have you ever thought about the whole temptation thing and the fruit on the tree and thought, "Big deal. So she ate an apple. I don't get it." You ponder the disobedience that occurred, but still go back to, "What was it about that tree that was so alluring?" Maybe I'm the only one who asks these questions, but I'll bet I'm not. Havah portrays the temptation that Adam and Eve experienced in such an amazing and believable fashion that I will never see things the way I did before. It was a whole lot more than a piece of fruit. While the author had to expound on the few paragraphs in the Scriptures that describes Adam and Even and their experiences, every aspect of the story is doctrinally sound. It lines up with the nature of God and the themes throughout the Bible.

Can you imagine the horror when they realized exactly what they had done? And then there is the blame and betrayal, "It was the woman you gave me." One of the most powerful lines in Havah is very short. It's simply, "We die." But the impact I felt surrounding those words was incredible.

And think about Cain and Abel. We know that Cain killed him after he offered to God a sacrifice that didn't please "the One Who is". But I'd never really thought about why it didn't please God. I'd also never considered the horror Havah would've felt the moment she realized that the ultimate sin (murder) had occurred in her own home. And to not lose just the one son to death, but also the other when he fled. The imagery surrounding their clan, family dynamics, and the conflicts they had was all done so incredibly well it took my breath away. It's impossible to not cry when this story ends. Tosca's powerful use of language is very moving and the ending is perfectly written. I stand amazed.

I could go on and on about how much I love this story, but it's hard to put into words exactly how it effected me. The authors use of the English language is amazing and the imagery she creates from everyday words is beyond what I've ever read before. She even had cleverly placed words that I'd rarely seen in books. This is not a novel for people who like simple stuff. This is the deeply spiritual memoir of Eve. Thankfully we know how the story ends.

Havah was published by NavPress and was released in October 2008.

White Christmas Pie by Wanda Brunstetter is up on CFBA!

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
White Christmas Pie
Barbour Publishing, Inc (September 1, 2008)
by
Wanda E. Brunstetter


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Fascinated by the Amish people during the years of visiting her husband's family in Pennsylvania, WANDA E. BRUNSTETTER combined her interest with her writing and now has eleven novels about the Amish in print, along with numerous other stories and ministry booklets. She lives in Washington State, where her husband is a pastor, but takes every opportunity to visit Amish settlements throughout the states.

This year Wanda also publishedA Sister's Hope


ABOUT THE BOOK

Step into Amish country for this bittersweet holiday romance. Here you'll meet Will Henderson, a young man tortured by his past, and Karen Yoder, a young woman looking for answers. Add a desperate father searching for his son, and you have all the ingredients for a first-class romance that will inspire and enthrall.

Abandoned by his father, Will Henderson was raised by an Amish couple. Now he's about to marry Karen Yoder but is having second thoughts. Can Will overcome the bitterness of his past in order to secure his future? Karen cannot break through the barrier her fiance has suddenly constructed around his heart. When she seeks the advice of an old boyfriend, Will begins to see green. Has he already lost his chance for happiness?

When an accident threatens Will's life, the strength of blood ties is tested. Will a recipe for White Christmas pie contain the ingredients for a happily-ever-after?

If you would like to read the first chapter of White Christmas Pie, go HERE

Watch the book trailer:




My review:

I had a hard time getting in to this book. I never cared about the characters. I read it in two days and kept thinking maybe it would pull me in more, but nope. It's not a hard read, in fact, I'd say it's middle to high school level reading. It's also not very deep. The story has great potential but I didn't connect with Will as much as I wanted to. I think because the author tended to over-explain I didn't need to think for myself. It also had a very predictable plot. So while I really wanted to love this book, I finished it and can't say that I liked it. The ending was also fairly rushed and the tension seemed contrived and slowed the story down. And the core issue was repeated over and over throughout the story, which got old fast. I did read another book the author wrote and I enjoyed it, so I was disappointed in White Christmas Pie.

White Christmas Pie was published by Barbour and released in 2008.

Win a copy of Beloved Captive by Kathleen Y'Barbo

To enter to win a copy of this book simply post a comment about what intrigues you about stories that have historical ships, handsome captains, and adventures on the high seas. Yummy, eh? Don't forget to leave me a way to contact you. Peace!




About the book:

In this sequel to Beloved Castaway, Emilie Gayarre is learning to accept her mixed race heritage while finding fulfillment in teaching children of the key. There is no denying the attraction between Emilie and the handsome young naval commander, Caleb Spencer, who is shadowed by his own flock of secrets. But if her heritage is found out, even greater things than his career are at risk. Enjoy this historical romance full of risk and redemption.



My thoughts:

I absolutely loved the previous book in this series, Beloved Castaway, so I'm sure this will be a great read, too. I hope to finish it before the blog tour which is coming up shortly.

Win a free copy of "Tight Ship" coming in Feb 2009!

Want to win a free copy?


How many of you have your own “loose cannon/tight ship” stories you’d like to share? You know, the kind where someone else was the loose cannon in your life–or where you realized you were the one rolling dangerously around the deck, creating havoc in someone else’s life? Because that’s what this book is about–my own sometimes humorous (sometimes not so much!) attempts to “control” those loose cannons of life, only to discover that I was the loosest cannon of all–but God loves me anyway.

Please leave clear contact information so we can notify you if you win the book, which will release in February 2009. Looking forward to hearing from you! And, of course, if you want to leave a comment other than a loose cannon/tight ship story, please feel free! You’ll still be entered into the contest. Blessings!


Click here to share your story and enter to win!


*And if you remember, please mention that you heard about the giveaway from me.

My review of Until We Reach Home by Lynn Austin

About the book:

Life in Sweden seems like an endless winter for three sisters after their mother's death and their father's suicide. Elin feels the weight of responsibility for her sisters' welfare and when the circumstances become unbearable, she writes to her relatives in Chicago, pleading for help.

Joining sixteen million other immigrants who left their homelands for America between 1890 and 1920, Elin, Kirsten, and Sophia begin the long, difficult journey. Enduring the ocean voyage in steerage and detention on Ellis Island, their story is America's story. And in a journey fraught with hardships, each woman will come to understand her secret longings and the meaning of home.

My review:

I've been told for several years about what a wonderful author Lynn Austin was, but I hadn't read any of her books yet even though I own five of them. Anyway, I read Until We Reach Home for the CFBA blog tour. It's a thick book so I didn't finish before the tour ended, but now that I have finished I must tell everyone what a fabulous author she is and how much I love her storytelling! How is this for an opening line... "Elin Carlson walked into the barn and everything changed." Are you hooked? I was.

Ms. Austin provides rich detail about the time period the characters are living in, but this is done in a way that draws you further in to the setting. This story had so much intrigue, suspense, peril, yearning, hope, and faith in the midst of trials that it truly inspired me. The faith journey was SO believeable. The pain they went through made a lot of sense, and I truly felt for them. My heart grieved right along with them. I found myself thinking about the story all the time until I could steal away and read more. That, to me, is the sign of a fabulous read.

I am a real sucker for romance, which is sprinkled generously throughout the book, too. Plus, the heartache and pain resulting from dysfunctional situations and sin is portrayed realistically. While not edgy in regards to the details, Ms. Austin did a magnificent job of making me care about their pain and showing how deeply they hurt. Yet she balance that by showing how that makes them love more deeply as well.

In my opinion Ms. Austin is one of the best historical fiction authors at putting her characters in impossible situations and showing how God provides a way in the midst of heartache. She shows how God allows it to make His children grow in faith, and that He is always there even if He doesn't always take away the hardship and pain. And He can transform even the hardest of hearts when people love Him and each other like the Scriptures say.

The relationship that Sophia developed with Ludwig was so amazing it took my breath away. I NEVER would've thought to draw out the character's faith and introduce them to true love through sharing God's Word the way the author managed to do. And to use the Bible as a tool to communicate between their languages was brilliant. This tender relationship was beautifully developed and one of my favorite parts of the story. It made my heart sing!

I can't say enough good things about this story. I'm definitely putting this book on my list of favorites for 2008!

Until We Reach Home was published by Bethany House and released in October 2008.

Here is another author interview

Think you knew all about me? Here is some more stuff you might not know. :) Maybe you don't care to know more about me but stop by anyway. Thanks!


http://www.wordvessel.blogspot.com/

Scroll down until you see my picture. Peace!

Now I'm giving away The Bone Box by Bob Hostetler

To enter the contest to win a copy of this fascinating story, simply post a comment telling me why you want it. I will draw a winner Sunday. :) Peace!



Synopsis

Combining the adrenaline-fueled adventure of Indiana Jones with the thrills of a Steve Berry Novel, The Bone Box is the latest in biblical archeological suspense.

Archeologist and agnostic Randall Bullock has come to Israel to try and resurrect his crumbling career and shattered life. Teaming up with Miri Sharon, a beautiful representative of Israeli Antiques Authority, the two unearth a stone casket marked "Joseph, son of Caiaphas," which contains several fragile scrolls that document the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

This discovery launches Miri and Randall, along with his estranged nineteen-year-old daughter, Tracy, into a race to validate the monumental find, no matter what the Israeli authorities, media circus, and archaeological rivals want the world to believe. Forced to face the power of this historical resurrection, Randall must also struggle with his own beliefs -- or lack of them -- while trying to keep the consequences of their discovery from taking a disastrous turn.

The Bone Box, fraught with political intrigue, is a suspense-filled blend of historical fact, romance, and transforming faith. Through all the danger and struggle, Randall discovers how easy -- and deadly -- it is to ignore the evidence and reject the true story of Christ.

The Bone Box is published by Howard books, a division of Simon and Schuster, and was released in Oct 2008. I don't know about you all but this one sounds fascinating. I haven't had a chance to read it yet but I plan to soon.

One Holy Night by J. M. Hochstetler is up on CFBA!

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
One Holy Night
Sheaf House (April 1, 2008)
by
J. M. Hochstetler


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:


J. M. Hochstetler writes stories that always involve some element of the past and of finding home. Born in central Indiana, the daughter of Mennonite farmers, she graduated from Indiana University with a degree in Germanic languages. She was an editor with Abingdon Press for twelve years and has published three novels.

One Holy Night, a contemporary miracle story for all seasons, released in April 2008. Daughter of Liberty (2004) and Native Son (2005), books 1 and 2 of the American Patriot Series are set during the American Revolution. Book 3, Wind of the Spirit, is scheduled for release in March 2009. Hochstetler is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, Christian Authors Network, Middle Tennessee Christian Writers, and Historical Novels Society.



ABOUT THE BOOK

In 1967 the military build-up in Viet Nam is undergoing a dramatic surge. The resulting explosion of anti-war sentiment tears the country apart, slicing through generations and shattering families. In the quiet bedroom community of Shepherdsville, Minnesota, the war comes home to Frank and Maggie McRae, whose only son, Mike, is serving as a grunt in Viet Nam.

Frank despises all Asians because of what he witnessed as a young soldier fighting the Japanese in the south Pacific during WWII. The news that his son has fallen in love with and married Thi Nhuong, a young Vietnamese woman, shocks him. To Frank all Asians are enemies of his country, his family, and himself. A Buddhist, Thi Nhuong represents everything he despises. So he cuts Mike out of his life despite the pleas of his wife, Maggie; daughter, Julie; and Julie s husband, Dan, the pastor of a growing congregation.

Maggie is fighting her own battle--against cancer. Convinced that God is going to heal her, Frank plays the part of a model Christian. Her death on Thanksgiving Day devastates him. Worse, as they arrive home from the gravesite, the family receives news of Mike s death in battle. Embittered, Frank stops attending church and cuts off family and friends.

By the time a very pregnant Thi Nhuong arrives on his doorstep on a stormy Christmas Eve, Frank is so filled with hate that he slams the door in her face, shutting her out in the bitter cold. Finally, overcome by guilt, he tries to go after her, but driving wind and snow force him back inside. With the storm rising to blizzard strength, he confronts the wrenching truth that what hate has driven him to do is as evil as what the Japanese did all those years earlier, and that he needs forgiveness as desperately as they did ...

Frank doesn't know that what God has in mind this night is a miracle. As on that holy night so many years ago, a baby will be born and laid in a manger--a baby who will bring forgiveness, reconciliation, and healing to a family that has suffered heart-wrenching loss.

If you would like to read the first chapter of One Holy Night, go HERE.

My review/endorsement:

Provocative and insightful, One Holy Night shows in rich detail how God can use the most trying circumstances to bring people around until they see how much they need each other, and need Him. This life-changing story will move you to tears as you experience the humility of a young Vietnamese woman, her husband's desire to see his father heal, and the trials that bring them together in one desperate attempt to save another's life.

For Shoutlife members only! Another chance to win!

This is crazy. Check it out!

http://www.shoutlife.com/profile_view.cfm?uid=27634&view_mode=blog&blog_id=282304

Told you!

Huge giveaway of books, music, and more - $335 value in prizes!

Welcome to the 1st ever
TitleTrakk.com Blog Tour!

This week we're chatting about:

The Fantastic Fall Giveaway Contest!

Just in time for the holidays, you could win over $335 worth of books, cds and dvds!

Sponsored by our friends at:

The Grand Prize Winner will receive:

BOOKS:

Whispers of the Bayou by Mindy Starns Clark
Rachel's Secret by BJ Hoff
Beach Dreams by Trish Perry
Playing God by Michelle McKinney Hammond
White Soul by Brandt Dodson
The Legend of the Firefish by George Bryan Polivka
Finding Marie by Susan Paige Davis
The Power of Praying Through the Bible by Stormie Omartian
A Man After God's Own Heart by Jim George
Evidence for Faith 101 by Bruce Bickel & Stan Jantz

CDS:

Wake Up! Wake Up! by Everyday Sunday
Rock What You Got by Superchick
Sunday by Tree63
Houston We Are Go by Newsboys (Live CD/DVD)
Nothing Left To Lose by Mat Kearney
I Am Free Worship Collection
Salvation Station by Newworldson
Not Without Love by Jimmy Needham
Pages by Shane & Shane
Colors and Sounds by Article One

MOVIES:

Love's Unfolding Dream
The Ten Commandments Animated
Between the Walls

But that's not all!
We're giving away even more!

During this blog tour (November 10th - 16th) we'll be drawing 2 winners daily from the contest entries to win an additional free book or cd!

Visit the TitleTrakk.com Contest page today to enter the contest and place yourself in the running to receive the Grand Prize, plus all the daily prizes! Deadline to enter is November 17th.

About TitleTrakk.com:
Founded in 2006 by Tracy & C.J. Darlington, TitleTrakk.com is an interactive website spotlighting Christian books, music & movies. Updated weekly, we feature author and musician interviews, album and book reviews, music videos, movie reviews and interviews, book excerpts, surveys, polls, and fun contests. Learn more: http://www.titletrakk.com/about.htm

Until We Reach Home by Lynn Austin is up on CFBA!

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Until We Reach Home
Bethany House (October 1, 2008)
by
Lynn Austin


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

For many years, Lynn Austin nurtured a desire to write but frequent travels and the demands of her growing family postponed her career. When her husband's work took Lynn to Bogota, Colombia, for two years, she used the B.A. she'd earned at Southern Connecticut State University to become a teacher. After returning to the U.S., the Austins moved to Anderson, Indiana, Thunder Bay, Ontario, and later to Winnipeg, Manitoba.

Lynn resigned from teaching to write full-time in 1992. She has published twelve novels. Three of her historical novels, Hidden Places, Candle in the Darkness, and Fire by Night have won Christy Awards in 2002, 2003, and 2004 for excellence in Christian Fiction. Fire by Night was also one of only five inspirational fiction books chosen by Library Journal for their top picks of 2003, and All She Ever Wanted was chosen as one of the five inspirational top picks of 2005.

Lynn's novel Hidden Places has been made into a movie for the Hallmark Channel, starring actress Shirley Jones. Ms Jones received a 2006 Emmy Award nomination for her portrayal of Aunt Batty in the film.

Among her lastest books are A Proper Pursuit and A Woman's Place


ABOUT THE BOOK

Life in Sweden seems like an endless winter for three sisters after their mother's and father's suicide. Ellin feels the weight of responsibility for her sisters' welfare and when it circumstances become unbearable, she writes to her relatives in Chicago, pleading for help.

Joining sixteen million other immigrants who left their homelands for America between 1890 and 1920, Ellin, Kirsten, and Sophia begin the long, difficult journey. Enduring the ocean voyage in steerage and detention on Ellis Island, their story is America's story. And in a journey fraught with hardships, each woman will come to understand her secret longings and the meaning of home.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Until We Reach Home, go HERE


My thoughts:

This book is WONDERFUL!!! I wish I had more time in the day. It's over 400 pages but I've read the first 230 pages already. I hope to finish it soon. I have to know what happens. Lynn Austin is a master at making you sweat, putting her characters in peril, and making you love them so much that your heart breaks with them. WOW! Few authors do this well. This book is worth reading and just a litte edgy - enough to make me smile, anyway.

My review of Rain Song by Alice J. Wisler

About the book:

Unspoken secrets surround Nicole Michelin's childhood as a missionary kid in Japan, but she's quite satisfied with her American lifestyle. She enjoys writing about fish in her online column---where she meets Harrison Michaels. When he hints at having connections to her past, will Nicole listen? Is she ready to know the truth?

My review:

Rain Song is an enjoyable read. There are dysfunctional family members with quirky habits, and plenty of unusual situations that keep you reading. I enjoyed the story but can't say that it moved me emotionally. I liked the subplot with Monet and Nicole's cousin Grady. I wish this could've been expanded a bit. The aunt with the cough I though surely would get cancer or something the way she was hacking all the time. And the grandmother was charming.

I wish I could've spent more time with Harrison (beyond the e-mails). I would've loved to have gotten to know him better, but when she finally visited him it all happened at the end of the story and a lot was implied. So while I found the storyline fascinating and the search for memories of her mother poignant, it never moved me to tears. Not even the break up with the prior boyfriend. I think it's because Nicole never really grieved. She seemed distant from her own pain. Not very healthy.

I also like more romance in a story, and this one barely touched on the subject. Again, she seemed pretty unemotional about everything. Maybe that was because it was written in the first person POV. I'm not sure. It was a charming story, though, and a perfect beach read type of book. If you want a story that will pull you through an emotional rollercoaster of feelings, this isn't it. But if you like a story with interesting characters and situations that won't bore you to pieces, this is a good read for that.

Rain Song was published by Bethany House and released in October 2008.

I'm giving away a copy of A Constant Heart by Siri Mitchell

I am so excited about giving away a copy of this book. I loved it! It's going to be on my favorite fiction reads for 2008 list for sure. Also, a copy of my review is posted on the Baker/Revell site. Is that cool, or what. I guess they liked what I had to say, too. Anyway, if you want to win a copy of this amazing story, tell me why when you post a comment and I'll enter your name in the contest to win it. I will pick a winner on Wednesday! Best wishes and don't forget to leave me a way to reach you if you win!


About the book:

Born with the face of an angel, Marget Barnardsen is blessed. Her father is a knight and now she is to be married to the Earl of Lytham. Her destiny is guaranteed...at least, it would seem so. But when her introduction to court goes awry and Queen Elizabeth despises her, Marget fears she's lost her husband forever. Desperate to win him back, she'll do whatever it takes to discover how she failed and capture the love of a man bound to the queen.


My review:

First, let me say that the cover is the most beautiful historical fiction cover I have ever seen. Second, I don't recommend reading this book if there are a lot of distractions. To get the full effect of the author's voice and the setting you need to be in a place where your concentration is not easily broken. Do this and you'll get sucked right in. I had to set aside blocks of time read to this book because it's not the kind where you can just read a page here and there. Once I got a chance to really read it, I became distressed that I had to wait to finish it. But life gets busy. At any rate, this book kept calling me to read it and that rarely happens to me with books, which is why I gave it five + stars.

Siri writes real thoughts and real life. The ugliness of that time...black plague, people being quartered and beheaded, etc. was not glossed over, nor was it written for shock value. It was simply told truthfully and that made the setting feel more real to me. Someone mentioned there being less content about God and faith than in secular novels. I disagree. I saw more content with a spiritual thread than is even found in some CBA fiction. However, the content was limited to the era and thus constrained by the culture. To write a viewpoint much different from how Siri wrote it, well, that would not have worked and would have blow the author's credibility. She had to show the way it really was.

I found this story very romantic as well. At first I wanted to smack Lytham around, but Siri redeemed him well. He became quite the hero, but was still flawed. Some of the marital conflict was hilarious and overall quite entertaining. I could feel their emotion and it was fabulously written. The love scenes were realistic, too, but tastefully done.

I despised the older woman who was continually advising Marget. And what happened with Lytham's former wife was simply tragic. Marget was innocent and the advice given nearly ruined her. The grieving she experienced was so real to me that I cried for Marget several times. It wasn't a heavy, lingering feeling from her pain, though, because I had not experienced the same thing. But I could identify with her. And like in the story about the Titanic, where you know the ship will sink, I kept reading with the anxious feeling of knowing that the cosmetics were poisoning her and I couldn't stop her from returning to court. I totally bought into the tension in this story.

Siri always makes me think about our culture and other cultures when she writes. I could see how women over the centuries have done just about anything to look beautiful. I found that concept fascinating and told many people about this story because of it. What a great premise! I'd always wondered why courtiers had such a high rate of infertility. If you wanted to be a mother, chances were better if you stayed far away from the queen and her court.

I also found the portrayal of Queen Elizabeth to be very well done. There was so much richness and depth to this story, I could go on for hours. But in short, the definition of love and faithfulness is explored in detail in A Constant Heart, and the way the author showed the many different perspectives was nothing short of brilliant. If you love realistic historical fiction that is honest and contains some edgy content, you'll want to devour this book!

My review of Trouble in My Way by Michelle Stimpson

Synopsis

IT'S ALL HER MOM'S FAULT.

If she hadn't snooped into Karis's diary, she would never have found out that Karis went to a boy's house without permission. Now Karis is grounded, which means no modem, no iPod...and no cell phone. There's just no way a cute, popular, high-schooler can survive being cut off from the world, so Karis is forced to sneak around behind her mother's back. But the way she's acting makes Karis feel guilty—even if it is her mom's fault—and she doesn't like the feeling.

Her scheming is starting to cause other problems, too. Borrowing a friend's cell phone has turned into a catastrophe that may break up her oldest friendship, and the cutie she met after driver's ed is acting a little scary. Will the faith her mother has taught her be enough to help her find her way through this trouble...and show both the world and herself that she's a stronger, better person than even she ever knew?

My review:

Trouble in My Way is a thoroughly engrossing and realistic portrayal of how young people often see nothing wrong with bending the rules and trying to weasel out of punishment. I loved how the entire story was told from Karis's point of view. Karis doesn't see her faults, and compared to many kids, she really is pretty good. But she still finds trouble even when she tries to behave. She simply can't stand to be grounded all the time, so she sneaks behind her mother's back and does what she wants to do despite the restrictions. I did the very same thing when I was a teen. The more my parents tried to chokehold me, the harder I fought to get free. This is one of the reasons I don't do this with my teens, and you know what? They are really good kids. So being harder isn't always better. Listening is important as is praising them when they do the right thing. But I digress.

Karis reminds me so much of when I was young. Because when you're a teen think you know everything, but you are really quite naive. You think your decision is always the right one, but you only see one side of every issue. The author does a great job portraying the mother/daughter tension and the issues that come from being a child with divorced parents. I have seen this same scenario many times when counseling teens. The parents continue to tighten the screws and the teens just keep fighting everything. Unfortunately this oftentimes makes things worse. Like when Karis started to believe she might as well do the unthinkable since her mom always seems to think it of her anyway. Only Karis really did try to be good. And she prayed and did have faith. But when she put herself in difficult circumstances, she had to fight to keep safe. The world is a dangerous place, and Karis discovered that truth the hard way.

In the midst of her struggles, Karis learns some tough lessons. I love how the author let that play out so naturally that teen readers will have the benefit of learning the same lessons without getting themselves in the same situations that Karis had. The characterization was flawless, too. I remember the days when all that mattered was the guy was cute. The rest was irrelevant. But we adults all know many young people who married those messed up, but very good-looking men and they totally ruined their lives. That message is portrayed very well in this story, too. I highly recommend this book because unlike many YA novels, this one offers hope and shows how faith can make all the difference to a struggling teen.

Trouble in My Way is published by Pocket Books, a Division of Simon and Schuster, and will be on sale in November 2008.

Out of Her Hands by Megan DiMaria is up on CFBA!

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Out Of Her Hands
Tyndale House Publishers (September 22, 2008)
by
Megan DiMaria


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

I was born and raised in New York State and have since lived in Maine, Florida, Pennsylvania, Texas, New Jersey, and now I live in Colorado. My husband and I have three delightful, adult children and an old Jack Russell Terrier named
Belle who seems to find her way into my novels. My resume will tell you I graduated from SUNY Plattsburgh with a degree in Communications, and after graduation I worked as a radio and television reporter, freelance writer, editor and marketing professional.

I'm a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and am assistant director of Words For The Journey, Rocky Mountain Region.

But what's most important to know about me is that I am a follower of Jesus, wife, mother, friend, reader and writer.

Life’s a journey, enjoy the adventures!


ABOUT THE BOOK

In this second novel by Megan DiMaria, Linda Revere is back and continuing to struggle with the turmoil of contemporary life. Linda has been praying for her children's future spouses since they were very small. Confident that her prayers will be answered, Linda is not prepared for the young woman her son brings home. But Linda soon learns that while everything she once controlled is out of her hands, God is still in control. Megan uses her trademark humor while dealing with issues to which her readers will relate.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Out Of Her Hands, go HERE

"No sophomore slump for DiMaria! This novel (Out of Her Hands) is as engaging and meaningful as her first, Searching for Spice. Her realistic portrayal of the characters' lives should endear them to readers and help Christians to feel less alone in their daily trials."
~Romantic Times Magazine, 4 ½ stars TOP PICK!

“Life in Linda's world is messy...but filled with love, laughter, struggle and faith. Megan has created a most real heroine for us to love...and I adore her!”
~Deena Peterson, reviewer: A Peek at my Bookshelf

“Megan DiMaria crafts a novel so compelling, so real, you forget you're reading fiction.”
~Darcie Gudger, reviewer: TitleTrakk

"This is a great read for a quiet afternoon or in those times when you feel your own life spinning out of control and need the reality check of knowing you're not in it alone."
~Amazon reviewer

My thoughts:

I want to finish Searching for Spice before I read this one.

Now I'm giving away a non-fiction book titled, "Following God with all of Your Heart" by Elizabeth George

To enter for a chance to win a copy of this great non-fiction book, simply post a comment after reading the description and tell me what you think you might get out of reading this book.

About the book:

Brand-new from bestselling author Elizabeth George! In her upbeat, practical style, Elizabeth encourages women to embrace radical faith as they serve God by helping people and accomplishing His projects. Readers will discover key biblical truths to...

-grow in courage—knowing God is with them and will give them the courage to do what He asks

-grow in devotion—taking risks to follow God's plan and purpose

-grow in contentment—grasping five provisions from God that produce contentment

-grow in humility—remaining steadfast no matter what, knowing God blesses those who serve Him

-grow in confidence—facing, enduring, and overcoming everything through Christ

-grow in obedience—realizing God wants them to succeed

Elizabeth encourages readers to leave fear behind as they dedicate their lives to following the God who loves them. He will direct them and provide what they need to do His will...if they'll turn to Him and trust Him.

Rain Song by Alice J. Wisler is up on CFBA!

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Rain Song
Bethany House (October 1, 2008)
by
Alice J. Wisler


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Alice sold her first story to David C. Cook for a take-home Sunday School paper called Sprint. The year was 1988, this was her first submission to a paying market, and the check sent to her was for $125.00.

She was on her way!

Since then, Alice has sold articles and devotions to the Upper Room, Alive Now, Standard Publishing, ByLine magazine and others.

In 2006 she sent her novel Rain Songto Bethany House...and the rest is history! She signed a two -book deal and the second, How Sweet It Is will be out in 2009.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Nicole Michelin avoids airplanes, motorcycles, and most of all, Japan, where her parents once were missionaries. Something happened in Japan...something that sent Nicole and her father back to America alone...something of which Nicole knows only bits and pieces. But she is content with life in little Mount Olive, North Carolina, with her quirky relatives, tank of lively fish, and plenty of homemade pineapple chutney. Through her online column for the Pretty Fishy Web site, she meets Harrison Michaels, who, much to her dismay, lives in Japan. She attempts to avoid him, but his emails tug at her heart. Then Harrison reveals that he knew her as a child in Japan. In fact, he knows more about her childhood than she does.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Rain Song, go HERE

My thoughts:

I'm on page 95 and a third of the way into the story. I can't say that I'm really hooked into the story like I hope to be this far into a book (chapter 11), but I do like the story. It starts out a bit slow and there is minor conflict pulling the story forward, but it is moving forward so I think I'll keep reading. Not sure. If it were more compelling I would've finished it by now. I do like the author's voice, though, and the characters are interesting. I hope to post a review in the near future. It depends on if I decide to finish it or move on.

Giveaway and my review of Deja vu Bride by Debra Ullrick!

To enter to win a copy of Deja vu Bride simply read the description and review and tell me why you would enjoy this book. It's that simple. I'll pick a winner on Sunday!




About the book:

Furious with God, Olivia Roseman vows to never trust Him again. Why should she? Once again her prayers have gone unanswered, and once again another loved one has been ripped from her. With no job and only a few dollars, Olivia makes a choice to start over again. Without God and without love. However, her handsome new boss isn't going to make forgetting God or keeping her vow to never love again very easy.

Erik Cole questions the sanity of moving from Swamper City, Alabama to Charity, West Virginia. That is, until he hires airbrush designer Olivia Roseman to paint his monster truck. When he senses that she’s a gal who is down on her luck, he vows to do whatever he can to help her. Only problem is, the little beauty creates more challenges than one. As his feelings toward her deepen, all Erik can do is hope and pray that one day Olivia will open up her heart to Christ—and to him.

My review/endorsement:

Déjà vu Bride is a captivating tale of love lost and found again. Trust doesn’t come easy for Olivia, but God uses a faithful man and true friendship to bring her back to faith. This story is a great sequel to The Bride Wore Coveralls. If you enjoyed that mud bog racing tale, you’ll really enjoy this monster truck one!

—Michelle Sutton, author of It’s Not About Me



Here is a picture of Deb

Another chance to win a copy of It's Not About Me on two different sites!

About the book:

Annie has it all. She's attractive, graduated with honors, was accepted at the college of her choice, has supportive parents, good friends, and a steady boyfriend who loves her. One night when an unexpected visitor appears, Annie's safe world is destroyed. As she tries to recover the pieces of her broken life, a war ensues between two brothers who both claim to have her best interests at heart. But who will Annie choose? Or will she decide to turn her life in a different direction?



Click here to enter the site to win a copy of INAM on Louise Gouge's site!



Win a copy on Lynette Eason's blog!

It would be cool if you mentioned how you found the site doing the giveaway. And I wish you the best!